RSL Fiber Systems Takes Mine Lighting, Safety, and Productivity to a New Level
Remote Source Fiber Optic Lighting Technology Holds the Key
For generations the mining industry has grappled with the need to provide adequate light for those upon whom the industry most depends — dedicated miners working long and difficult hours in what very well may be the most challenging work environment known to man. To date, mine lighting solutions have been adequate, but better and safer alternatives have emerged.
Enter Remote Source Fiber Optic Lighting. This adaptable, proven, dependable, and powerful technology, with limitless potential, has the capacity to revolutionize the mining industry. And RSL Fiber Systems, LLC, is the innovative company behind this exclusive, next-generation mine illumination technology.
To date, fiber optic lighting has not been utilized in the mining industry, but the technology is mature and currently plays a vital role aboard several U.S. Navy warships. According to RSL’s Marketing Director, Peter P. Gladis, “The potential is unlimited: RSL’s remote source fiber optic lighting technology offers a variety of benefits and characteristics that can solve a multitude of challenges: improving productivity in day-to-day mine operations; for Search and Rescue Teams; on mining equipment; and as a key part of Mine Rescue Chamber Systems”.
“The beauty of this technology is the combination of customizable, high-performance light delivered over long distances and utilized in the harshest environments, along with the inherent safety of di-electric, or non-electricity conducting, fiber optic cable,” says Mr. Gladis. “Simply stated, the transport of reliable, high-performance light for critical, high-demand applications represents the second revolution in fiber optics and illumination.”
Envision a mine collapse and the role that remote source lighting can play in mitigating tragedy. The technology’s ability to carry high-intensity light through thin, flexible fiber optic cable, and emit that light through tiny “luminaires” that can fit through even the smallest of crevices, can make a world of difference in time-sensitive search-and-rescue operations.
RSL Fiber Systems uses high quality, efficient light sources and fiber optic cables to deliver high-intensity light significantly farther than regular fiber cable. In common plastic fiber optic lighting systems, the maximum distance is typically only 50 feet; with RSL’s compact, portable, lightweight system, transmission distances are greatly extended, potentially thousands of feet. Brightness and application flexibility are maximized, and the light can be safely utilized in a multitude of ingenious and effective ways.
Potential scenarios in which remotely generated, fiber optic light can play a critical role include when explosive gases, liquids or fumes are present — especially at the point of mining operations; when highly sensitive electronic equipment or radio systems are deployed; when emergency helicopters need to make night-time landings on makeshift landing pads; and when the risk of high vibration or shock is present.
Remote source lighting carries no electricity, eliminating the risk of an electrical spark — there is no EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference) or RFI (Radio Frequency Interference). Fiber optic cable can be laid in water, mud, or flammable liquids — with no risk of explosion. Systems can be stored in small, portable cases for easy deployment in the most difficult-to-reach locations, and multiple, cool luminaires can be driven from a single light engine, or illuminator.
RSL systems are rugged and shock-tested to the highest military requirements and therefore ideal for harsh or unstable environments where reliable performance is critical. Solid state luminaires and cables can withstand high amounts of abuse for extended periods; the luminaires, themselves, are passive devices requiring no maintenance or replacement.
A division of Skyler Technologies Group, RSL Fiber Systems is the sole-source provider of remote source lighting applications for the U.S. Navy for shipboard use on the Navy experimental craft “Sea Fighter”, as well as the LPD 17 and DDG 1000 class warships. RSL employs the latest technologies to custom-design the most advanced fiber optic-based solutions for the most demanding, complex military, commercial and industrial lighting challenges.
The company is presently working to expand its reach into a variety of commercial/industrial markets, as well as government segments including targeted Department of Defense elements. In addition to mining, target markets for RSL technology include homeland security, first responders, military special operations, energy production/refining, shipbuilding and renewable energy. In addition, RSL can design and implement a complete lighting system, which may incorporate a combination of remote source lighting along with modern electrical lighting component, like LEDs.
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For more information:
Contact: Peter P. Gladis, Director of Marketing
Cell: 860-518-5515
Office: 860-282-4930, ext. 4957
E-mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
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