Revision of the ventilation system in Louhi mine - a case study

摘要

The Louhi limestone mine has been in operation over 50 years. Because of the mine's changing shape the ventilation system has been checked and updated several times. Due to the recent growth a revision became indispensable and was accomplished in 2002. The aim of this study was to find ways to prevent fog in the ramp, and to guarantee sufficient amounts of fresh air entering active mining areas. The methods used were field studies, measurements, calculations, and computer modeling. The received information was combined with the measurement results to enable the creation of the computer simulation model. The model was used in testing the possible changes of the ventilation network. Short-term as well as long-term improvement suggestions were given. For long-term operation three main alternatives were lined out. These were a new fan, a new raise as an extension to the old dead shaft, and/or changes in ventilation raise functions.