Summary: A bearing failed in the troughing set at the front of the longwall mobile boot end resulting in a small grease fire. The fire was quickly extinguished by water.
Recommendations to industry: Mine operators are reminded of the importance of inspections and maintenance of conveyor belts and idlers for the prevention and early detection of fires.
Operators should review the effectiveness of:
- automatic fire detection systems
- condition monitoring programs
- inspections for the detection of overheating idlers and rollers.