Safety and Technical Optimization of Belt Transfer Points with Special Consideration for the Suppression of Noxious and Explosive Dusts

摘要

A dust suppression installation and a dust monitoring instrument were laboratory tested and installed at belt transfer points in a coal mine where noxious and explosive dust develops by air separation, leading to considerable increases of concentration in subsequent operational areas. Usage of enclosed segment chutes is shown to reduce the dust load by 40 percent. A digital scattered light photometer in connection with a signal-controlled sprinkler installation lead to further dust diminution along with a reduction of the spray water volume by 30 to 50 percent. Generalization of usage of the present installation is advocated.