Anemometers for Use in Mines and Tunneling

Measuring Airflow in Mines and Tunnels

Portable vane anemometers measure the velocity of moving air at selected points within a mine or tunnel. When these readings are combined with the dimensions of the airway, ventilation teams can calculate the approximate volume of air passing through that area.

This information helps mine operators confirm that air is moving in the intended direction and that working areas are receiving the airflow required by the site’s approved ventilation plan and operating procedures.

Adequate ventilation is essential for helping to dilute and remove hazards such as methane, diesel emissions, blasting fumes, respirable dust, smoke and excess heat.

An anemometer does not directly detect gases, dust concentrations or oxygen deficiency. Instead, it should be used alongside appropriate gas detection, dust monitoring, environmental instruments and established ventilation procedures.

Using Anemometers to Check Underground Ventilation

Vane anemometers can be used for quick airflow checks, scheduled ventilation surveys and investigations when conditions appear to have changed.

Common applications include:

• Measuring airflow at working faces and other designated measurement points
• Checking intake and return airways
• Assessing airflow around ventilation curtains, tubing and regulators
• Confirming conditions following ventilation adjustments
• Supporting the inspection of fans, ducts and other ventilation equipment
• Identifying areas where airflow is lower or higher than expected

Correct measurement technique is important. Air velocity can vary considerably across an entry or opening, so readings may need to be taken at several points to establish a representative average. Measurements should always be completed by trained personnel following the mine’s ventilation plan, applicable regulations and site procedures.

Air movement also contributes to underground heat management. However, heat risk is affected by several factors, including temperature, humidity, radiant heat, workload and personal protective equipment. Airflow measurements should therefore form part of a wider approach to monitoring underground environmental conditions.

Maintaining Accurate Airflow Measurements

Anemometers used in mining environments may be exposed to dust, moisture, dirt and rough handling. Over time, contamination or damage to the vane assembly can affect the reliability of readings.

Units should be visually inspected before use, stored in a clean and protected location and calibrated in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations and the mine’s own procedures.

Carroll Technologies Group can support customers with anemometer repairs, cleaning and annual calibration services, helping maintain dependable airflow measurements throughout the equipment’s working life.

Carroll Technologies Group supplies equipment and technical support to more than 800 mines across North America. Customers can also contact the MinerCare 24/7™ team for product assistance, replacement parts, troubleshooting and emergency support.

Superior Technologies ST1000 Mining Anemometers

Carroll Technologies Group supplies the Superior Technologies ST1000 range of portable vane anemometers for mining, tunneling and other industrial applications.

These compact mechanical instruments are designed to be carried underground and used for airflow measurements at different points across a site. They are available in two measurement ranges to suit different ventilation conditions.

ST1000-8 Low-Speed Anemometer

The ST1000-8 is intended for lower and regular airflow conditions.

Measurement range: 40 to 5,000 feet per minute
Diameter: 4 inches
Accuracy: ±2% of the correction factor

View the ST1000-8 Low-Speed Anemometer

ST1000-4 High-Speed Anemometer

The ST1000-4 is designed for areas where higher air velocities need to be measured.

Measurement range: 200 to 8,000 feet per minute
Diameter: 4 inches
Accuracy: ±2% of the correction factor

View the ST1000-4 High-Speed Anemometer

Both ST1000 models are described by Superior Technologies as intrinsically safe vane anemometers. Their compact four-inch design makes them easy to carry between working areas, while the mechanical construction provides a straightforward option for routine underground airflow measurements.

The instruments are calibrated using NIST-traceable technology and can be supplied with special calibration requirements where needed. The manufacturer recommends that each unit is returned for cleaning and calibration annually, beginning one year after purchase.

Built for Demanding Mining Environments

The ST1000 housing and finger clasp are CNC machined from 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, while the vane assemblies use anodized aluminum to provide additional protection against demanding conditions and regular handling.

Custom engraving and anodized color options are available for businesses that need to identify equipment by site, department or asset number. Extension rods are also available to help personnel take measurements in locations that are difficult to reach while maintaining a safer working position.

For help selecting the appropriate ST1000 anemometer, arranging calibration or replacing an existing vane anemometer, contact Carroll Technologies Group