As mines become deeper, the problems of heat in the workplace
become more acute. An important response from the industry has
been the widespread adoption of microclimate cooling such as
air-conditioned cabins. However, not all work in mines can be
completed from inside an air-conditioned cabin, and in any event,
it is still important to keep the ambient air in the mine outside of
any microclimate to a safe temperature. An important method for
bringing workplace temperatures under control is the appropriate
use of refrigeration. The application of refrigeration in
mechanised mines has been recently described (Brake, 2001;
Brake and Fulker, 2000). This paper provides an overview of
some of the important engineering considerations in the
specification and selection of mine refrigeration plants. The
purpose is to provide a basic understanding of refrigeration
principles, practices, terminology, hazards and opportunities for
mining engineers or other personnel who may need to be
involved in the introduction of refrigeration onto a mine site.