Last updated on January 25th, 2022 at 04:04 pm

Mines are getting deeper and are working with more complex ores and materials. Add in rising energy costs, a greater need for efficiency, and increased public pressure on environmental impact and the industry is in severe need of adopting technological advances. Electric heaters, and drywell immersion heaters in particular, are helping the mining industry overcome these challenges.

Drywell Heaters

Several industries around the world utilize drywell immersion heaters every day to maintain functionality in the workplace. Without proper heating, fluid within large tanks becomes susceptible to unwanted states of matter (Liquid freezing, liquid becoming too viscous, etc). Depending on the function of the stored fluid, this can potentially be incredibly costly and/or even dangerous. 

Applications of Mining Heater Systems

Mines plunge deeply into the earth for the minerals we use in all varieties of products from computers to jewelry. Going as deep as 1.2 miles (2 km) below the earth and reaching temperatures as low as -40° (low enough to negatively impact or stop the performance of mining tools), smart heating solutions are a necessity. 

Drywell heaters are one such solution. Without these pipe heaters, miners would be unable to perform operations so deep underground where abundances of mineral deposits exist. 

Rock Crushing

Rock crushing, an objective that is involved in most mining operations, is dependent on immersion heaters. Without rock-crushing tools, the process of mining would be extraordinarily slow or even impossible depending on the environment. 

Using an electric immersion heater within rock-crushing equipment increases the temperature within the equipment so that functionality isn’t negatively impacted by the cold. Additionally, an immersion heater can assist with lubrication systems that are needed when mining. Without an immersion heater, oil that is meant to lubricate abrasive moving parts is too viscous to function and can cause damage to mining tools.

Gearbox Heating

Another benefit of drywell immersion heaters in the mining industry is keeping gearboxes heated up enough for optimal operational use. Without gearboxes, mining would be painfully slow to complete. Furthermore, consumer goods that use materials sourced from mines would take a significant amount of time to produce. That is why the mining industry deploys drywell heaters as often as possible so that productivity isn’t slowed down and consumer demand can be quenched.

Equipment & Personnel Safety

When searching for pipe heaters to deploy for mining operations, it is important to purchase heaters that are tested and certified as explosion-proof. It should go without saying how calamitous an explosion in the mining industry can be. 

There are unfortunately several incidents of explosions occurring in the mining industry. These can result in the deaths of several hard-working men and millions of dollars worth of damages and delays. Preventative measures such as purchasing explosion-proof immersion heaters can reduce risks and minimize damage.

Longer Lasting Heaters

One more reason that enterprises in the mining industry use electric immersion heaters is their total lifespan. Electric heaters have less complex designs and fewer components than their fossil fuel counterparts. This simplified design not only makes them more reliable but also decreases their risk of failure. Maintenance is easier, repairs are less frequent and less expensive, and they keep working at maximum efficiency for longer.

Drywell Heater Quotes

Wattco custom manufactures drywell heaters for the mining industry. Our engineers help you select the right design, whether direct attachment or weld-in drywell heaters, and the proper wattages and materials.

Contact Wattco today for drywell heater quotes and information.