High-Spec Compact Refuge – MineSAFE CD X-Series
The MineSAFE Compact Design (CD) X-Series Refuge Chamber is designed specifically for single-entry headings and high heat areas. The compact, portable refuge station is easy to manoeuvre and position as needed at underground mine sites.
Based on the existing Compact Design, the MineSAFE CD X-Series offers extra features for location-specific use, including a high spec control system, remote monitoring via Wi-Fi, external gas detection, plus 12psi blast rating as standard.
Personnel situated directly at the working face (e.g. drill operators) run the risk of being trapped behind a fire or other hazard further up the decline. The MineSAFE CD X-Series refuge station has been engineered specifically for this type of scenario – providing a place of safe-refuge even in the most remote, inaccessible parts of the mine.
Designed specifically for tight confines near the blast face, the MineSAFE CD X-Series Refuge Chamber can be easily manouevred for safe-refuge where and when required. The CD X-Series is equipped with forklift slots and lifting points.
The CD X-Series features XFLAM insulation panels, structural reinforcements, front and rear blast shields, extended range air conditioner (-15°C to 60°C) to withstand entrapment scenarios in blast radius and high heat conditions.
Standard configurations are available based on occupancy – from 4 to 6 people – however, the rescue chamber dimensions and rated occupancy can be custom-engineered to site specifications, without compromising on safety or performance.
| Model | Occupancy | Height (m/inch) | Width (m/inch) | Length (m/inch) | Weight (kg/lb) |
| MS-CD-X-04-ELVP-36 | 4-Person | 2 / 78.7″ | 2 / 78.7″ | 2 / 78.7″ | 5,100 / 11,244 |
| MS-CD-X-06-ELVP-36 | 6-Person | 2 / 78.7″ | 2 / 78.7″ | 2.4 / 94.5″ | 5,500 / 12,125 |
Aura-FX Fixed Gas Monitor
GuardIAN Refuge Chamber Monitoring
36hrs UPS Battery (minimum)
XFLAM Insulation Panels
6mm Steel Plate Construction
Structural Reinforcement
Blast Shield Protection
Blast Rating: 12psi
Viewing Porthole
Remote Video Camera Monitoring
CO2 Scrubbing
Breathable Air (O2)
Pre-packaged Chemical Cartridges
ELVP (Extra-Low-Voltage-Portable) Controller
Ergonomically Designed Seating
Extended Range Air Conditioning (-15°C to 60°C)
Transformer
IT Hitch
Receptacle Plug
Automated Oxygen Delivery System
First Aid Kit
Carbon Monoxide Safety-Off-System
Positive Pressure Maintenance System
Exterior + Interior
MineSAFE CD X-Series – Front View
The ‘face’ of the MineSAFE CD X-Series is designed for easy identification and quick access during an emergency, with blast shield protections for key componentry.
The strobe lighting, warning siren and reflective signage alert passers-by to the chamber’s location, while the rotating door handles provide simple, straightforward access to the safety of the interior.
A GuardIAN Gas Node monitors gas levels in surrounding areas, providing gas levels to personnel sheltering in the chamber and those monitoring remotely. Remote video camera monitoring sends a live, recorded stream of both the interior and exterior of the refuge chamber.
MineSAFE CD X-Series – Interior View
Inside a MineSAFE CD X-Series Refuge Chamber, a number of vital life-support systems combine to create a safe, ongoing environment for occupants. Systems include; primary and secondary air (oxygen) supplies, air conditioning systems, positive pressure systems, electrical systems, gas detection and a chemical scrubbing system.
The compact refuge uses active chemicals and MineARC’s ELV (Extra-Low-Voltage) Scrubbing System to ‘scrub’ the build-up of harmful CO2 (carbon dioxide) and CO (carbon monoxide) from the air inside the refuge chamber.
A 6mm reinforced steel structure with 50mm XFLAM insulated panels provide additional blast protections.
MineSAFE CD X-Series – Rear View
A secure cabinet at the rear of the MineSAFE Compact Design houses the refuge chamber’s UPS battery back up (Uninterruptible Power Supply). The UPS is a fail-safe system that can power the refuge chamber’s internal life support systems for a minimum of 36hrs, should mine power become cut-off.
A Compressed Air Management System (CAMS) allows regulated compressed air into the refuge chamber when the pressure inside drops below 200Pa. This process optimises mine air usage and guarantees against over-pressurisation of the refuge chamber.
CAMS’ gas toxicity monitor automatically diverts compressed air if oxygen levels in the airline fall below a set level (19% oxygen in free air), signifying air contamination. Additionally, the incorporated flood protection valve automatically shuts down compressed air to avoid catastrophic and costly chamber damage in the event of water ingress.
Also at the rear of the chamber is the Air Conditioning Condenser, Transformer and Fire Extinguisher bracket.
Comparison Table
| Name | Capacity * | Advanced Digital Control System ** | iVAN *** | Aura-FX Gas monitoring | Modular construction | Air-conditioning | 36hrs Battery Backup | Blast Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
8-30 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
4-8 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
4-6 | 12psi | ||||||
 |
8-30 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
8-26 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
12-32 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
25, 50, 75,100 | 5psi | ||||||
 |
30-500 | 5psi |
- * Capacity Every refuge chamber is built with a certain rated occupancy in mind. The life support systems are designed to safely house this number of people for the designated duration.
- ** Advanced Digital Control System All refuge chambers with a Series IV Scrubbing System feature MineARC's unique Advanced Digital Control System.
- *** iVAN iVAN is an on-board navigation assistant that guides occupants through operational procedures.
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