Underground mine ventilation planning, heat loads, and diesel equipment

摘要

The use of diesel equipment underground is a factor to take cognizance of when the heat load and other environmental issues form part of the overall planning methodology. Trackless equipment or diesel powered machinery is an important aspect especially in massive mining operations. Increasing efficiency and their specific application into deep level mines are of great importance. Trackless equipment re-directs the emphasis on the surrounding environment and the ambient condition thereof. Remote control of diesel equipment underground can be done, however the surrounding environment should not be neglected with regards to the ambient temperature in those areas. Ventilation and the cooling of deep underground mines is a necessity and on the list of current mine design strategies. The usage of diesel equipment, I.e. LHD's, trucks, etc., or in some instances hybrid type systems (combinations of conventional and trackless equipment) could place an additional burden on such mines. When planning and designing an underground mine, heat loads are included and the long term implications in the selection of the correct trackless equipment to be used in a mine cannot be overemphasized. This paper will discuss the implications, design issues, and ventilation aspects including an overall design philosophy.