Development of a Real Time Airflow Monitoring and Control System

Abstract

Computer software has been developed to link real time information generated by underground mine ventilation airflow monitoring sensors into a network simulation program to undertake network simulations and allow interpretation of key system data and operational changes. Results were used in the development of a computerized monitoring and simulation system to provide immediate or real time data on air behaviour within each branch within an underground mine ventilation network through linking of sensors to the ventilation network simulation software. The outcome of the project is an online system which can report changes in the mine ventilation system, allow causes of changes to be isolated and rectified, improve balancing of available air throughout the mine, allow improved approaches to regulator setting and dispense with much of the labour used for underground ventilation measurement. The main work activities involved in the research program have involved examination and modelling of regulators used in two Australian mining (coal and metalliferous) environments, software modification and considerable mine site testing and optimising activities. The mathematical modelling of airflow through a variety of mine regulators was an important part of the project and this aspect is discussed. There is some discussion on approaches to control of flow through ventilation systems with increased information.

Meeting Name

10th U.S./North American Mine Ventilation Symposium (2004: May 16-19, Anchorage, AK)

Department(s)

Mining Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Air Behaviour; Computerized Monitoring; Underground Mine Ventilation Airflow

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2004 Taylor & Francis, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

19 May 2004

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