Mine Electrification and Power Electronics: The roles of wide-bandgap devices

Abstract

In the rugged terrains of traditional mining, a revolutionary shift is taking place, driven by the desire to achieve net-zero targets and respond to multiple challenges, primarily health issues and operational inefficiencies. The electrification of mining operations depends upon the integration of advanced power electronics (PEs) and wide-bandgap (WBG) devices, which serve as the enabling technology by efficiently converting and controlling electrical power, ensuring not only energy savings and reduced emissions but also robust, reliable systems. In the meantime, the mining sector is evolving into a key player in grid modernization, driven by an increase in distributed energy resources (DERs), the need for energy efficiency, and the growing interconnectedness and digitization of power systems. This modernization is critical for ensuring grid resiliency and security, particularly in the face of potential cyberthreats. As mining operations move toward full electrification, elements such as renewable energy, energy storage, microgrids, electric mobility, and digitization play a central role, with autonomous dc microgrids emerging as a viable solution to ensure reliability and safety in both the power grid and mining sites. Therefore, WBG device-based PEs are pivotal in mining transition by offering advanced control, energy management, and protection required for efficient grids, devices, and machineries. In addition, WBG devices’ exceptional characteristics, such as high-efficiency, high-power, and high-frequency capabilities and higher temperature tolerance are ideal for mining applications, specifically in large-scale mining machinery that demands significant electric energy. The outcome is reduced energy consumption, enhanced reliability, and the development of more compact machinery designs with less waste heat, diminishing the need for extensive cooling systems.