Optimization of Underground Environment by Improving the Management of Ventilation Networks

Abstract

In the process of underground coal mining a complex network of vertical, horizontal and inclined mine workings with the purpose of extraction, transportation and evacuation to the surface are utilized. The mining workings are also being utilized for ventilation network system, which is also used for ensuring the oxygen supply necessary for workers, as well for diluting explosive gases and/or toxic substances and, ultimately, for exhausting the heat resulted from underground workings. For air flow pumping, special fans, of high capacity, located at the surface of the main ventilation stations are used. The fan operating mode depends on aerodynamic parameters and also on the structure of the ventilation network. Knowledge of specific local network parameters leads to the optimization of air flow distribution. The novelty presented in the paper consists in analysing and optimising the complex ventilation networks of Lonea mining unit, based on the depresiometric, flowmeters measurements and the status parameters specifics to each branch. Worldwide, in high developed mining countries, solving a complex ventilation networks it's being carried out with the help of specialized software such as VentSim, VentGraft, VentPri, 3D Canvent etc., through discontinuous operating at the mining unit quarter or to a distant location, where upon the results obtained are presented to the ventilation specialists. The complex ventilation network afferent to Lonea mining unit was rendered, fixed and optimised, up-to-date, using 3D Canvent software.

The quality of the environment in the Rosia of Jiu quarry as a result of the use of Caterpillar 323D L and 323D LN excavators

“…The PM 10 µm suspended particles were measured using the HPM32322550 sensor which uses laser-based light scattering to detect both 2.5μm and 10μm particles. Noise level was measured using a Noise Level Sensor sample [2][3][4].…”

Optimization of Branch Airflow Volume for Mine Ventilation Network Based on Sensitivity Matrix

“…Scholars have continuously improved and refined the iterative algorithm and optimization model of ventilation networks through extensive research [17]. This has led to a more comprehensive theoretical analysis method for optimizing ventilation networks, as well as the development and promotion of mine ventilation simulation software [18][19][20][21]. With the advancements in theoretical research, certain ventilation network optimization methods have been applied and validated in real mines [22][23][24][25].…”

A mine main fans switchover system with lower air flow volatility based on improved particle swarm optimization algorithm

“…1,2 On one hand, this system is of greater importance for a coal mine primarily because of the methane emission issues. 3 Most coal mines seams have high level of methane that continuously emit to the airway during the mining process. Ventilation system needs to provide enough fresh air to dilute the methane to the regulated limit for preventing methane explosion hazards.…”