Fallen Coal Retrieval Robot
In thermal power plants, structural issues during the loading and transportation of coal via conveyor belts lead to continuous coal losses. As accumulated lost coal increases the risk of spontaneous combustion and raises fuel costs, recovery operations to minimize coal loss are essential.
Our ‘Fallen Coal Retrieval Robot’ is designed to traverse rails located beneath conveyor systems, utilizing 2 hydraulic robotic arms to efficiently collect and reload fallen coal. This system is engineered to recover over 90% of lost coal within 20 minutes per sector. For safety assurance, the robot automatically stops operation if a worker approaches within 3 meters from the front or rear. Additionally, it features IP66-rated dustproof and waterproof capabilities, ensuring stable functionality even in environments with airborne particulate matter. To prevent sparking, the structure is constructed using urethane materials, providing fire prevention functionality for enhanced operational safety.
The coal recovery robot has been under development since winning the Presidential Award at the 2023 Smart Robot & Drone Challenge. Recently, it was jointly exhibited with KOMIPO(Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd.) at an international exhibition organized by the Indonesian Invention Association, where it received a gold medal and a special award from the Royal Society of Thailand. This recognition highlights its innovative approach to coal recovery and automation technology.