Considerations for application of electrical submersible pumps for underground coal mine dewatering

Deep coal seams require mine dewatering pumps of high capacity, high head, and high reliability. Mining ESPs (electric submersible pumps) are an adaptation of fresh-water or oil-well ESPs. To pump from a horizontal coal seam, special pump configurations are required. Downhole conditions are severe. Mine water is acidic and carries suspended solids. Electrics on mining ESPs are regulated by federal and state laws, and safety requirements are extensive. Surface-located ESP electrical controls are a major factor in pump reliability. The electrical designer must examine the particular mine requirements to apply effective ESP controls.<>