Mechanical Mine Clearance
Do you need a cost-efficient way to detect and clear mines?
Then MineTech has the solution for you.
Why are machines used?
Firstly to detect mines. Very few mine detection techniques
other than mine detecting dog teams or metal detectors have any
platform from which to deploy successfully into a minefield with
only limited risk of exploding mines. The MineTech Mine Detection
Vehicles (MDVs) provide such a platform, applying very low ground
pressure, which enables them to travel over the mines, detecting
them but without detonating them. Then the manual or canine teams
can start work.
 Secondly, to clear ground. Manual mine clearance teams need an
area of clear ground in which to work. If heavy vegetation or
trip-wires are present, the quickest and most efficient way to
clear the area is to use a flail machine, which will also detonate
some surface landmines.
Mine clearance machines do not clear the ground to humanitarian standards
and must always be followed up by further clearance works if the
clearance is to be accredited.
What machines do MineTech use?
Experience of using other companies' technologies and the problems
that were encountered led MineTech International (MTI) to develop a
comprehensive range of exclusively designed machines to support projects
of all sizes. MineTech can help you select the most appropriate machine
for your project depending on the terrain and mine threat.
What are the benefits of using machines?
MTI machines will improve the speed, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and
safety of your project. The machines are a versatile way to deal with
landmine infestation as they can clear the ground in record time in any
weather and in most terrain.
How do the machines cope in remote environments?
The machines have been specifically designed to operate in remote
environments and therefore cope very well. The machines have to cope
with the considerable heat and dust of desert conditions but equally
can be subjected to freezing conditions. Very few countries that have
mine problems have the infrastructure to operate or maintain machines
full of complex electronics and hydraulics that need highly-skilled
personnel and sophisticated supply lines. That is why the MineTech
ethos for machines is to make them rugged, as simple and effective as
possible and capable of being easily maintained in the types of countries
in which they operate.
How are the machines maintained?
It is very important that the machines are reliable and that they
can be easily maintained in the field. A mechanic from the development
centre will mobilise with the machine and remain on site for the duration of the
project to increase productivity by reducing machine downtime. MineTech machine
operators are trained on how to operate the machines, as well as how
to deal with maintenance and repairs. The operators are continually
briefed on the workings of the vehicles. All machines are supported
with a comprehensive service and spares system from the UK development
centre to ensure that maximum productivity occurs. Mechanical
training is an ongoing process and changes in technology demand a
continual education for staff engineers. The engineers have the
requisite trade qualifications as well as continued experience
with the daily maintenance and development of the machines.
MineTech's experience
MineTech's reputation as a world leader in landmine clearance is
due to its experience and the development of cutting edge technology.
The machines have evolved through experience of working in the toughest
conditions imaginable. It is because of innovation and determination
to get the job done that the machines have advanced to such a high extent.
Continued investment and innovation ensures that all machines are of
the highest standard. They have to cope with extremes of temperature and
a considerable amount of effort is put into ensuring the equipment remains
reliable through the development of procedures, staff training and
engineering.
Safety
MineTech is committed to adhering to and improving the safety standards
of vehicle operators and machines. All MineTech demining sites require
strict control and a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures
(SOP) are stringently adhered to covering issues including safety
distances, PPE, hearing protection and liaising with police and local
officials.
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