Mine Ventilation System
Introduction
Mine ventilation is an important part of mine safety and productivity. Mines contain hazardous gasses, working in enclosed areas and therefore require control of the air circulated throughout them. Mine ventilation systems are designed to provide a safe and healthy environment in mining and can also be used to control the temperature and humidity of the mine to maximize productivity.
Types of Mine Ventilation Systems
There are two main types of Mine Ventilation systems used: Forced Air Systems and Natural Ventilation Systems.
Forced air systems involve the use of fans to move air throughout the mine via a series of ducts and pipes. These systems are used to keep air well ventilated in areas of the mine with high levels of hazardous gasses, such as the underground coal mines. This system is also used to blow ou toxic and flammable gasses such as methane which can build up in the mine; and to blow fresh air into the mine.
Natural ventilation systems make use of natural factors such as wind or temperature differences to move air in and out of mines. This method of ventilation has become increasingly popular in some mines as they use fewer resources and cost less to operate than forced air systems. The disadvantage of a natural ventilation system is that it is not always dependable, as natural factors such as the wind can be unreliable.
Ventilation Shafts
Ventilation shafts are an important part of mine ventilation systems. They are designed to be sufficiently large to provide the required volumes of air to the workings. Air entering the mine via the shafts needs to be propelled and distributed in the four main directions of the mine. To achieve this, the air is usually forced through fans or blowers. The fans can be placed in the shafts themselves, or can be located at the head of the mine, depending on the size of the mine.
It is important that the ventilation shafts are of adequate size both because of the volume of air they need to move, and to ensure that the air pressure in the mine is within the acceptable range. If the air pressure is too low, the mine may suffer from an air shortage, while if it is too high, it can lead to problems such as overexertion on equipment and people.
Ventilation Curtains
Ventilation curtains are an important part of a mine ventilation system; they work to maintain the airflow of a mine by preventing the air from flowing back into an area it has already visited. These curtains are placed in between areas that contain different levels of hazardous gasses and are designed to be fireproof and durable.
Conclusion
Mine ventilation is an important and often overlooked aspect of mine safety and productivity. Through the use of forced air systems, natural ventilation systems, ventilation shafts and ventilation curtains, mines can maintain a safe and healthy environment for their workers and maintain high levels of productivity.
