1221 Sherwin Road Winnipeg, Manitoba R3H 0V1

Tel: (204) 631-0157 Fax: (204) 631-0192

E-Mail: bart.gilbert@alphair.mb.ca

TO:
Ivan Abulias
DATE
Dec. 12, 2012
COMPANY:
ACH
FROM:
Bart Gilbert
TELEPHONE#:
PAGE 1 of
2
FAX #:
ALPHAIR REF.:
ACH-Codelco V58 Fan
COPY:
Al Marques
SAVED AS:
Dec12-12
RE: Codelco V 58 Fan - Stall Issues
Ivan,
We would build the fan to be identical to the original units, only changing where
our processes or standards have changed since the original construction. We have not
included any stall protection in the fan itself, no stall ring or anything of that nature.
However, we have reviewed the defined duty point, and the fan performance and have
full confidence that if operated as specified, the fan will not stall.
Stall is a possibility on any axial fan if the operating point moves to an area in the
stall zone of the fan. This is outside of our control. If the mine pressure for the design
volume is higher than stated, or if some portion of the system is restricted in any way,
then stall could result. As noted above, we are confident in the fan performance, if
Codelco is less than fully confident in the design pressure, or feels that there is a
possibility of the system varying and requiring higher than design pressure we can offer
some relatively low cost options and suggestions.
1- The operating philosophy should be set up such that the fans always work
together. As they will be on VFDs, there are no inrush or overcurrent / voltage
issues to deal with. The fans should be started and modulated together, and if
one fan is operating, and a second has to be brought on line, the first fan should
be ramped down to minimum speed, the second fan started and the two ramped
up to the duty point in unison. There would be no cost associated with this.
2- A pressure transmitter installed and connected via the PLC to be used to shut the
fans down if the peak of curve pressure is exceeded. A suitable pressure monitor
would cost +/- $2,500.00 and there would be a nominal cost for integration into
the control system.

3- If a shutdown is not an acceptable response to an over pressure incident, a

bypass damper could be installed to relieve pressure on the system, keep the
mine operating and protect the fans from stall. A suitable damper, pressure
monitor and modulating actuator would cost +/- $40,000.00
In conclusion, the fans as offered are suitable for parallel operation as defined in the
specification with no additional cost items required. If operation outside of the defined
duty is possible, or there is uncertainty as to future duty points, some insurance in the
form of pressure monitoring or a bypass system may be desirable.
I hope this is responsive to your needs, please call if you need anything further.
Regards,
ALPHAIR Ventilating Systems, Inc.

Bart Gilbert
Manager Mining Sales