Applying European approach to predict coal self-heating in Ukrainian mines

Yu. Gamiy¹, Ya. Liashok², V. Kostenko², O. Zavialova², T. Kostenko³, O. Kostyrka³

¹State Militarized Mine-Rescue Service, Myrnohrad, Ukraine

²Donetsk National Technical University, Pokrovsk, Ukraine

³Cherkasy Institute of Fire Safety named after Chornobyl Heroes of National University of Civil Defense of Ukraine, Cherkasy, Ukraine

Min. miner. depos. 2019, 13(1):86-94

https://doi.org/10.33271/mining13.01.086

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ABSTRACT

Purpose is the prediction of coal self-heating and determination of the factors effecting the dynamics of emission of tracer gases (TG) used for routine control of coal self-heating within the production unit involving European approach.

Methods. To determine the composition of mine ventilation flows, mine air was sampled into a rubber chambers with the volume of 1 liter; after that, gas content (%) was determined in State Militarized Mine-Rescue Service (SMMRS) gas analytical laboratory with the help of “SIGMA-SO-V” and “Kristall” gas analyzers. Arrangement of sampling points is specified according to the normative document. Sampling periodicity while identifying a threat of coal self-heating within the worked-out area was three hours; in terms of standard conditions, the periodicity was not less than once a day. Period of monitoring within the mine working areas is not less than 9 – 10 days. Experimental observations were performed in terms of the production unit of “Pioner” mine and “Pokrovske” mine office.

Findings. Innovative approach to routine control of coal self-heating taking into consideration TG dynamics has been tested in terms of the pillar system with return-flow ventilation of a mine section. It has been defined that within the area of expected place of coal self-heating, carbon oxide (CO) consumption within the mine workings was up to 20.59 l/min, and the worked-out area was the source of TG emission; if there were no signs of self-heating, self-heating was not more than 4 – 6 l/min. It has been determined that the TG emission nature is effected by geological (coal grade, seam occurrence, and seam disturbance) and technological (development system, ventilation scheme, rate of stoping advance, downtime periods etc.) factors.

Originality.It is for the first time when, in terms of mining-geological and mining-technical conditions of Donbas, the factors, determining dynamics of tracer gases within the production unit in terms of pillar system of seam deve-lopment, have been defined.

Practical implications. Possibility to use European methodology of routine control of coal self-heating in Ukrainian mines has been substantiated and validated.

Keywords: endogenous fire, coal self-heating, tracer gases, ventilation flow, thermal destruction of coal

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