Published in the December 2009 Coal USA Magazine

“It is common for mines to experience rapid build-up of dangerous gasses behind sealed-off areas. To overcome potential safety hazards associated with these build-ups, and to enable work to continue more quickly around newly sealed areas, our R&D team has developed a Tekseal that cures in only three days,” research and development director Steve Tadolini said.

As well as the three-day cure, Minova unveiled new packaging that allows bulk handling of its standard-setting Tekseal products.

“This will make it easier and faster to transport materials and minimize the physical requirements of seal construction,” Tadolini said.

The new Minova bulk bags, constructed of a reinforced nylon material with a heavy-duty plastic liner, are tear and water resistant.

The bulk bags can be positioned above the placer unit to provide material previously contained in individual 45-pound bags.

“Handling thousands of 45-pound bags for large seals in a confined space can cause slipping and stumbling accidents as well as serious back injuries,” Tadolini said.

The bulk bag contains the equivalent of a full pallet of individual bags and requires no manual handling.

“An added safety feature is the significant reduction in airborne dust and waste material handling.

“The Minova bulk system also reduces the time and labor required to install a seal and helps to ensure a consistent mix.”