Underground mining machines - Mobile extracting machines at the face - Safety requirements for shearer loaders and plough systems
1Key Takeaways
This document specifies safety requirements to minimize the hazards listed in Clause 4 that can occur during the assembly, use, maintenance, repair, decommissioning, disassembly and disposal of shearer loaders and plough systems when used as intended and under conditions of misuse which are reasonably foreseeable by th…
2Expert Interpretation
This in-depth analysis of ISO 19225:2017's safety technical requirements for shearer and plow systems covers key areas such as mechanical stability, control system reliability, and dust and noise control, providing guidance on equipment selection and operation that adheres to international standards. The standard applies to underground mining scenarios, focusing on preventing mechanical injuries, thermal hazards, and electrical risks. It includes a list of 17 major hazards and corresponding verification methods for protective measures.
Analysis of the Standard's Core Content
Scope of Application
This standard applies to the entire life cycle of coal shearers and plow systems used in underground mining operations, including assembly, use, and maintenance. It explicitly excludes the special requirements for explosive environments (reference to ISO/IEC 80079-38 is required). This standard does not apply to equipment manufactured before this date.
Major Hazard Protection System
| Hazard Type | Coal Mining Machine | Plowing System | Corresponding Clause |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Extrusion/Shearing | ✓ | ✓ | 5.4.8 |
| Hot Surface Burns | ✓ | ✓ | 5.2.2 |
| Dust Hazards | ✓ | ✓ | 5.6 |
Key Technical Requirements
Mechanical Stability
The manufacturer must clearly specify the tilt limit values of the equipment in all directions:
- Coal shearers need to consider the balance between the forces on the cutting drum (radial force FWR and axial force FWA) and the center of gravity of the machine
- Coal plows use forced guide devices to ensure stability. When the plow body height is significantly greater than the guide rail, a stabilizer must be installed
Control System Safety
Safety-related control components must meet the PL "c" requirements of ISO 13849-1. Key designs include:
- Anti-accidental start device (5.4.3.2)
- 5-second audible and visual warning before start (5.4.3.4)
- Dual independent braking system (5.4.8.2)
- Radio control failsafe (shutdown within 1.25 seconds of signal loss)
Implementation Recommendations
Dust Control Plan
Water spray dust suppression systems (5.6.3) are prohibited in potash/gypsum mines. Instead, the following are recommended:
| Methods | Shearer | Plower |
|---|---|---|
| Dust suppression at the source | Reduce cutting speed Optimize tool layout | Adjust plow chain operating parameters |
| Auxiliary measures | Integrated spray system for cutting drum | Hydraulic support guard spray |
Noise management
Test specification (Appendix A) requirements:
- Ground testing of coal shearer needs to simulate 10m travel conditions
- Underground testing of coal plow needs to be carried out after advancing 15m
- Measurement uncertainty of sound power level ≤3dB(A)
Special maintenance tips
Hydraulic system maintenance must:
- Use fire-resistant hydraulic oil specified in ISO 12922
- The oil tank is equipped with a low liquid level alarm
- Release accumulator pressure before disassembly
- Hose connectors are marked to prevent misassembly (5.13)