Item: Avalanche control ropeways coquihalla highway avalanche safety program
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Title: Avalanche control ropeways coquihalla highway avalanche safety program
Proceedings: 1988 International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, October 12-15
Authors: J.R. Stevens
Date: 1988
Abstract: Two avalanche control ropeways were constructed as part of the avalanche safety program for the Coquihalla Highway. The contract for the construction of these ropeways was designed to utilize the latest technology and to encourage research and development of avalanche control ropeway systems. The two ropeways are 4.3 kilometers and 6 kilometers in length. Both ropeways use diesel-hydraulic drive systems, controlled by computers located in the drive stations. The ropeway operator programs the drive computer with pre-determined target locations and then attaches from one to ten explosive carriers to the haul rope. The explosive carriers are radio controlled and operated from the drive stations. Explosive packages of from one to ten kilograms may be used. Once a carrier reaches its target location, the operator, via radio signals, positions the explosive charge at or above the snow surface and detonates the explosive. The avalanche control ropeway systems are a safe and effective method of accurately delivering an explosive charge to a target. They have minimum manpower requirements and require very short road closure delays to conduct the explosive control work.
Presenters: Unknown
Keywords: ropeways, technology, drive systems, explosive
Subjects: avalanche control avalanche safety program coquihalla highway
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Digital Abstract Not Available
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