Compiled by the U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services, CDC/NIOSH Office of Mine Safety and Health Research, this 2010 publication demonstrates how existing and new engineering controls can be used to reduce face methane levels on continuous mining operations. The sampling methods that were investigated can provide better ways to measure methane levels near the front of the continuous mining machine. In this report several practical guidelines are recommended for controlling and monitoring methane levels in the face areas of underground coal mines. Most of the recommendations were based on studies conducted in the NIOSH ventilation test gallery.
Content:
• Front Matter
• List of Figures
• Acronyms and Abbreviations Used in This Report
• Unit of Measure Abbreviations Used in This Report
• Table of Contents
• 1. Executive Summary
2. Background
3. Test Facilities
4. Moving Air to the Mining Face
5. Effect of Scrubber Operation on Face Airflow and Methane Concentrations
6. Effect of Water Sprays on Face Airflow and Methane Concentrations
7. Methane Monitoring
8. Measuring Gas Levels Outby the Face
9. Evaluating Methane Levels in Areas Outby the Mining Face
10. Techniques for Measuring Airflow
11. Methane Monitoring during Roof Bolting
• 12. Practical Guidelines for the Control and Monitoring of Methane Gas on Continuous Mining Operations
• References