Friction Ignition or Potential for Incendive Sparking
Friction Ignition or Potential for Incendive Sparking
Frictional ignition and incendive sparking testing are a legislated requirement for underground coal mines, especially in high-methane or confined, methane-prone environments where any potential for sparking could pose a serious hazard.
We assess the potential for incendive sparking from rock-on-rock, rock-on-metal, and metal-on-metal contact using the Wards petrographic method. Our analysis identifies high-risk lithologies in core or face samples, helping you mitigate ignition risks.
Whether you’re updating a risk register or planning a new section, we deliver fast, accurate results that support compliance and protect your workforce.
What we test
- Petrographic classification via the Wards method
- Inspection of drill cores and hand samples from underground coal mines
- Identification of high-risk lithologies likely to cause sparks
- Grain composition and texture analysis linked to ignition events
- Risk profiling to support underground coal mine safety management systems
The Scope Geo advantage
We know rocks and we know risk
Led by geologists with over 20 years of combined experience, our insights are practical and grounded in real industry conditions.
Responsive and reliable
We deliver concise results, clear recommendations, direct communication, and meet every deadline.
Above-standard is our standard
Our 200-point count analyses and advanced microscopy techniques give you more detail, more confidence, and better outcomes.
A rare specimen
We’re the only Australian East Coast-based independent business offering this level of petrographic specialisation, and we intend to keep raising the bar.
Industry-backed, geologist-run
As proud sponsors of various industry events and conferences, we’re deeply embedded in the sectors we serve. These include IQA Biannual National Conference, Australian Engineering Geology Conference and the IQA QLD Branch.