Prediction of Insulation Resistance of Mining Electrical Equipment as a Method of Increasing its Safe Operation

Abstract

Ensuring the safe operation of electrical equipment in networks with isolated neutral during underground mining of coal mines achieved by the use of protection devices against leakage currents in underground power supply systems. Leakage protection devices (relays) monitor the insulation resistance of the mine electrical networks and initiate a fairly quick disconnection of the power receivers or part of the network from the voltage source when a person touches one phase, an electric network element or an electrical installation case, if this happened due to mechanical damage or a decrease in the resistance level isolation below the critical (set) value. The value of the insulation resistance of the elements of the electrical network changes during operation depending on the operating modes of the mechanisms (vibration, load), environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, aggressive fumes, coal dust). The approach of the value of insulation resistance to the value specified by the condition for the safety of maintenance personnel occurs at different speeds, and with a rapid change in insulation resistance, the operation of the protective device can occur with delay and go beyond the limits stipulated by the regulations. In this case, the touch of a person to an element that is energized leads to increased danger to him. It is possible to increase the safety of work and the efficiency of the operation of mining equipment by using a system for monitoring and predicting