American Mine Research is developing electronic equipment to track underground miners. AMR’s new underground wireless tracking and communications system is called ‘Mine Net Mesh’. It will combine tracking, voice and text communications, atmospheric gas monitoring and other monitoring and control capabilities all in one completely wireless system. The system is already under development and The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission has joined forces with the Bland County Economic Development Authority to assist the project. The Tobacco Commission awarded AMR a $800,000 grant late last year.

AMR was founded in 1975, and is well-known in the coal industry as a manufacturer of monitoring and control electronics for the underground and surface mining industries. The product line includes continuity monitors, electric circuit breakers and atmospheric gas sensors among other monitoring equipment. AMR developed its Mine Net System to meet and exceed standards outlined in the 2006 Miners’ Act, passed by congress in response to the mine explosion at the Sago mine, and the conveyor belt fire at the Aracoma mine.

David Graf, Manager of Business Development for AMR: “The new grant will really give us a shot in the arm to accelerate the research and development of products that will dramatically improve mine safety and efficiency. We hope to provide several new, high quality electrical and mechanical engineering, field technician and eventually production jobs at our company.”