Mining is one of the most demanding and hazardous industries in the world. Explosive atmospheres can form in an instant—when combustible dust or flammable gases meet an ignition source. The result can be catastrophic.
These risks are not limited to coal mines. Across the industry, operations generate airborne dust and release hazardous gases such as methane, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulphide. In confined or underground environments, poor visibility and limited ventilation only increase the danger.
In many mining applications—particularly during extraction and bulk handling—dust is present in its natural state and is typically non-conductive. From coal to limestone, gypsum to potash, these environments require equipment that can operate safely without ever becoming a source
of ignition.
Safety Without Compromise
The Cygnus 1 Ex ultrasonic thickness gauge is purpose-built for exactly these conditions.
Certified for use in hazardous areas containing flammable gases and non-conductive combustible dusts, it delivers reliable inspection performance without introducing risk. Its intrinsically safe design ensures that the instrument cannot generate sparks, arcs, or dangerous surface temperatures—even in fault conditions.
Key safety features:
- Limited output energy to prevent ignition
- Anti-static enclosure to eliminate static discharge
- Multiple redundant safety components
- No high surface temperatures—even if damaged or faulty
Fully certified to IECEx and ATEX standards, the Cygnus 1 Ex is approved for use in:
- All hazardous gas zones (0, 1 & 2)
- Zone 21 – where combustible dust may be present
- Zone 22 – where dust occurs only occasionally
Built for Real Mining Operations
From underground coal mines to bulk mineral extraction sites, the Cygnus 1 Ex is engineered for mining environments where non-conductive dusts dominate—while also delivering safe operation in the presence of hazardous gases.
It’s tough, reliable, and easy to use in the field. And because it’s intrinsically safe, inspections can be carried out without shutdowns or Hot Work Permits, keeping operations moving and costs down.
Performance is just as impressive:
- Accurate readings through coatings up to 20mm
- Reliable measurement on heavily corroded materials
- Multiple measuring modes for simple to advanced inspections
For more demanding applications, Manual Mode provides full control of A-scan settings, while Time-Controlled Gain (TCG) enhances weaker signals—ensuring accuracy even in challenging conditions. Advanced data logging, including 2D and 3D grid formats, gives inspectors the tools to track corrosion trends and focus on critical areas with confidence.
One Solution. Multiple Mining Applications.
The Cygnus 1 Ex isn’t limited to one type of mine. It’s a versatile, high-performance solution for a wide range of operations where non-conductive dusts and hazardous gases coexist.
To learn more, visit https://cygnus.tiny.us/C1Ex-UTG
