Lockheed Martin has successfully conducted a test of its MagneLink Magnetic Communication System (MCS) at a Test Mine in Bruceton, Pa. on June 15 and 16.
MagneLink MCS is a wireless, through-the-earth communications system developed to meet the mining industry’s post-accident emergency communications requirement. The system provides voice communication and texting to give trapped miners fail-safe communication during a catastrophe.
Lockheed’s devices capture voice down to 1,550 feet and data down to 1,900 feet.
The system works by transmitting magnetic waves through the earth without the transmission wires and in-ground infrastructure currently required to communicate via standard radio transmissions. It is a portable, two-way, voice- and text-capable emergency communication system operating at ranges sufficient to communicate from the surface into deep underground mines.
Communications infrastructure in mines typically involves a system of wires that is destroyed in an explosion or cave-in. Lockheed Martin and the Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) are currently working to certify the equipment for use in mines. MagneLink MCS systems will be available following MSHA certification.
