Protection against dust explosions in coal mines using shale barriers

Abstract

This paper presents the results of the tests shale barriers of various designs in a range in the shock tube length of over 100 meters, simulating the mine workings with the use of methane for the production of explosion. The shock tube is mounted of a concrete pipe brand TNG-1420 designed for operating pressures up to 10 atmospheres. The main element of shale barriers investigated in experiments is filled with inert dust in standard polypropylene (paper) bags of 25 kg and plastic containers of water barriers (CDW) loaded inert dust 10 kg currently in use in mines UD JSC «ArcelorMittal Temirtau». Calibration (tare) pressure sensors was carried out using a specially designed and manufactured to install and designed software module for PC. It was found that the shale barriers have an effective flame arrester effect and mesh barrier reduces the shock energy.