An Analysis of Current Australian Longwall Ventilation Methods
Abstract
A study has been undertaken into the mine ventilation systems currently in use within modern Australian longwall extraction mines. The paper reviews current systems and discusses evolving changes being adopted to address the more complex problems. The analysis of current Australian longwall ventilation methods is based on a review of current practice. An analysis of the ventilation techniques used to manage the critical ventilation issues experienced provides an understanding of the engineering solutions currently utilised. With a greater understanding of the dependent nature of these issues and the existing solutions a methodology can be established for the optimisation of longwall ventilation system. These techniques when combined with a working knowledge of existing or anticipated ventilation constraints facilitate ventilation network optimisation and allow for improved management methods through increased understanding. The review was completed by visiting and surveying 16 large longwall mining operations in Australia. The selection of longwall mines was based on encompassing most pits with pronounced ventilation challenges while focusing on larger operations facing issues related to higher production. Details are given of ventilation techniques used including number of gateroads developed, longwall ventilation patterns, use of monitoring systems, methods for sealing goafs, seal and stopping practices, pressure balancing of goafs and ventilation structures.
Recommended Citation
T. I. Mayes and S. Gillies, "An Analysis of Current Australian Longwall Ventilation Methods," Proceedings of the 7th International Mine Ventilation Congress (2001, Krakow, Poland), Research and Development Center for Electrical Engineering and Automation in Mining, Jun 2001.
Meeting Name
7th International Mine Ventilation Congress (2001: Jun. 17-22, Krakow, Poland)
Department(s)
Mining Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Australia; Coal; Homotropal Ventilation; Longwall; Mine Layout; Mining; Seals; Stoppings; Ventilation
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2001 Research and Development Center for Electrical Engineering and Automation in Mining, All rights reserved.
Publication Date
22 Jun 2001
