The mine hoist plays a central role in coal mining. It moves coal and waste rock from underground workings to the surface. It also carries workers, supplies, and equipment up and down the mine.

Older hoists use wound-rotor motors with resistor-based speed control. This method wastes a lot of energy. Nearly one-third of the electricity is lost as heat in the resistors. Speed regulation is uneven and inefficient. At lower speeds, the motor performs poorly. It becomes weak and unsteady. The equipment suffers from heavy shocks. This leads to breakdowns and accidents. It also requires constant upkeep.

Parts like contactors and brushes wear out quickly. The mechanical brake system takes a lot of abuse. Maintenance is expensive and time-consuming.

Application of VFDs in Mine Hoist

Using a V&T VFD changes everything. 

• It provides strong torque even at very low speeds. The hoist starts and stops smoothly. There’s no creeping or sudden jerks. Everything runs more steadily.
• The speed adjusts smoothly without steps. There’s less shock to the gearbox and brake. That means less wear and longer life for the equipment.
• There’s no need for old-style contactors or brushes. Simple squirrel-cage motors work perfectly. Maintenance becomes much easier.
• The drive also includes full protection and monitoring. Used together with a PLC, it makes the whole system far more reliable.
• And best of all—it saves energy. No more wasting power on resistance banks.

With the V&T drive, mine hoists run safer, smoother, and more efficiently. They also cost less to maintain. It’s a modern solution that helps keep mining operations running continuously.