Carrying on from the previous post, on site there are some 12 substations suplying power and control sustems to the site. Voltage varies from 3.3Kva (3300 volts) down to 4-20mA control signals, all of which we electricians are responsible for the maintenance and repair off. The picture above shows part of a substation.
We are responsible for safely isolating plant for fitters and others to work on. Communication is key, as is a high level of common sense and safety awareness. With the demise of mining, quarrying is now the most dangerous industry in the country with two fatalities only last month in other quarries.
The above pictures give a small insight of what is involved in the electical workings of a quarry, most of the electrical plant however is outside, exposed to the elements, dust, rock and other elements. All of it is critical as even the smallest rotation sensor or pressure switch can stop a critical item of plant. When there is a breakdown, the pressure really is on to get the plant up and running as quickly as possible.
That hopefully, gives a small insight into the environment that I work in and some of the responsibilities.
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