Yes, they connect to any LoRaWAN or MQTT infrastructure (Kerlink, Cisco, Milesight, MultiTech, etc.) for flexible integration with existing SCADA systems.
Acoustic & Vibration Detection of Rockfall or Structural Movement (Early Warning & Worker Protection)
Early warning to protect workers underground
Acoustic
Vibration
Quick Overview
| Problem | Underground mines and tunnels are exposed to rockfall, ground movement, and structural instability. These events often develop silently before collapse, putting workers, equipment, and production at severe risk. Traditional inspections are periodic and cannot provide continuous early warning. |
| Solution | Sensa.io’s wireless acoustic and vibration sensors continuously monitor rock mass behaviour and structural response, detecting micro-events, cracking sounds, and abnormal vibration patterns that precede rockfall or structural failure. |
| Value | Early warning • Worker protection • Reduced unplanned shutdowns • Improved geotechnical safety |
| ATEX | Depending on zone classification • ATEX-certified acoustic & vibration sensor variants available |
The Operational Challenge
Rockfall and structural instability are among the most dangerous hazards in mining.
01
High-risk areas include :
- Underground drifts and stopes
- Shafts and decline tunnels
- Crusher chambers and transfer points
- Pillars, ribs, and roof spans
02
Instability can be triggered by:
- Stress redistribution after blasting
- Progressive rock fatigue
- Water ingress and weakening
- Equipment-induced vibration
03
Traditional risk management relies on:
- Visual inspections by geotechnical teams
- Manual convergence measurements
- Periodic instrumentation readings
These methods are not continuous and often detect issues too late.
Why Acoustic & Vibration Monitoring Matter
01
Before visible collapse occurs, unstable rock emits acoustic and vibrational signatures:
- Micro-cracking sounds
- Increasing low-frequency vibration
- Impacts from small rock detachments
- Changes in resonance behaviour
02
Continuous monitoring enables operators to:
- Detect instability hours or days earlier
- Identify high-risk zones dynamically
- Trigger alarms and evacuations when needed
- Improve geotechnical decision-making
Early detection is critical to protecting lives.
Sensa.io Solution
Sensa.io provides a wireless early-warning monitoring system for rockfall and structural movement.
Core Components
Acoustic Sensor
Detects micro-cracking sounds, friction noise, and impact events inside rock mass or structural elements.
Vibration Sensor
Measures low-frequency vibration and resonance changes indicating movement or instability.
Wireless Communication
Supports LoRaWAN, Modbus, and MQTT, suitable for underground galleries and remote headings.
Installation & Power
Battery-powered clamp-on or bolt-on installation — no wiring, no drilling into live rock required.
Operational Benefits
- Continuous instability surveillance
- Early warning before collapse
- Reduced worker exposure
- Improved safety culture and compliance
Results and ROI
ATEX Compliance and Safety
Where required, Sensa.io sensors support:
- ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU
- Ex II 2 G Ex ia IIC T4 Gb (Zones 0–2)
- IECEx certification
This allows safe monitoring in gas- or dust-prone underground environments.
Integration and compatibility
| Protocols | LoRaWAN, Modbus RTU/TCP, MQTT, REST API |
| Systems | Mine SCADA, geotechnical platforms, EHS systems |
| Deployment | Distributed across underground zones |
| Cybersecurity | AES-128 encrypted communication |
FAQ - Common Questions
Are Sensa.io sensors compatible with any gateway or network?
What ATEX certifications apply to Sensa.io devices?
All hazardous-area models are certified Ex II 2 G Ex ia IIC T4 Gb and IECEx approved for Zones 0–2.
What is the typical battery life?
Up to 10 years at 15-minute intervals, depending on signal strength and environment.
How are the sensors integrated into existing systems?
Through standard protocols — LoRaWAN, Modbus, MQTT, REST API — no proprietary middleware needed.
How does predictive maintenance reduce OPEX?
Early anomaly detection reduces emergency interventions by 30–40 %, extends equipment life and lowers energy costs.
What does the Sensa.io Valve Position Sensor actually measure?
The device detects real-time valve position states—open, closed, or intermediate—with high accuracy. It continuously sends this information wirelessly to your monitoring dashboard.
Can this sensor detect partial valve movement or stuck valves?
Yes. The sensor identifies irregular patterns such as partial movement, delayed response, or stuck valves, enabling early maintenance before failure occurs.
Is this sensor suitable for manual, motorized, and actuated valves?
Yes. It supports a wide range of valve types including ball, gate, butterfly, actuator-driven, and manual valves.
How fast does it update the valve position?
You can configure the reporting interval—from seconds to minutes—depending on your operational and battery needs.
How long does installation take?
Most installations take under 10 minutes. The sensor mounts using brackets or clamps without modifying existing valves.
Explore Our Sensors
Valve position
The Sensa iO Valve Position Sensor provides real-time open/close feedback for manual and automated valves in oil & gas, chemical, and hydrogen operations.
Pressure
A rugged, industrial-grade pressure sensor designed for high-demand oil & gas applications. Provides continuous gas and liquid pressure monitoring, with ATEX intrinsic safety, IP67 housing, and LoRaWAN® connectivity.
Temperature
Sensa iO’s temperature sensor delivers precise temperature data for process lines, steam systems, heat exchangers, and storage assets.
Differential Pressure (ΔP)
A compact DP solution using dual synchronized pressure inputs to deliver accurate differential pressure data for filters, heat exchangers, separators, and manifolds.
Vibration
A high-resolution vibration sensor built for predictive maintenance of pumps, motors, compressors, and rotating equipment.
Acoustic
The Sensa iO acoustic sensor identifies ultrasonic leak signatures, gas escape, steam trap failures, and flare noise anomalies.
Trusted by a Worldwide Network
With partners in over 20 countries, Sensa IO delivers rugged sensor solutions to the toughest environments — everywhere.
