The successful recovery of the Dotiki Mine after a major mine fire

摘要

When a fire occurred on a diesel-powered supply tractor, the operation of the Dotiki Mine was in jeopardy. Direct attack of the fire was unsuccessful, and the mine was evacuated. Sealing became the only viable option for controlling the fire. Due to the extent of the mine development, sealing at the surface mine openings would have required a long atmosphere-inerting period, as well as an extensive recovery operation after breaching the seals. A plan was developed to install remote seals from the surface at strategic locations which, in conjunction with existing ventilation controls, provided a means for confining inert gas injected into the fire area. The success of the operation is credited to the implementation of newly developed seal technology and the cooperative efforts of all parties involved in fighting the fire. Proper planning and execution of the plan were key components to resuming production 26 days after the fire started.