Deepcore Nickel Mine Ventilation Retrofit

Design and implementation of a high-capacity, multi-stage gas-scrubbing system for a subterranean nickel mine in Sudbury, Ontario.

The Challenge

The Deepcore Mine, operating at depths exceeding 1.2 kilometers, faced critical air quality challenges. Existing ventilation could not adequately remove high concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) generated during blasting and ore transport. This led to frequent operational shutdowns to meet OHS exposure limits, reducing productivity and increasing safety risks for over 300 personnel. The client required a retrofit solution that would integrate with the existing shaft infrastructure without halting primary mining operations.

Our Solution & Measured Outcomes

Our engineering team designed a modular, three-stage filtration system installed in series within the main exhaust raise. Stage 1 utilizes inertial separators for coarse dust. Stage 2 employs a proprietary wet scrubber using a neutralization reagent to capture SO₂ and NOx. Stage 3 features HEPA-grade electrostatic precipitators for final PM2.5 polishing. The system is controlled by a real-time air quality monitoring network. Post-installation data confirmed a 99.4% reduction in SO₂, a 97.8% reduction in NOx, and PM2.5 levels consistently below 5 µg/m³—well within the most stringent Canadian OHS standards. This allowed for continuous 24/7 mining operations, resulting in a projected 18% increase in annual ore output.

How It Works

Our proven process for designing and implementing high-efficiency air quality systems, from initial assessment to full compliance.

1
Site Assessment
Our engineers conduct a comprehensive analysis of your subterranean mining or lab environment, measuring air quality, gas concentrations, and particulate levels to establish a baseline.
2
System Design
We create a custom 3D model and engineering plan for a high-efficiency exhaust and air filtration system tailored to your facility's specific layout and airflow requirements.
3
Gas-Scrubbing Technology
We integrate advanced gas-scrubbing modules designed to neutralize hazardous fumes and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) common in industrial and mining operations.
4
PM2.5 Filtration
Our multi-stage HEPA and electrostatic filtration systems are engineered to capture over 99.97% of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ensuring cleaner, safer air.
5
Installation
Our certified technicians perform a precise, non-disruptive installation of the complete system, including ductwork, scrubbers, filters, and monitoring sensors.
6
Compliance & Support
We provide final testing, documentation, and ongoing monitoring to guarantee your system meets all Canadian OHS air quality standards, with 24/7 technical support.