Maximizing Volumetric Efficiency for Ventilation Systems in Temporarily Reduced Flow Environments of Block Cave Mines

 

There are times in a mine life when airflow may need to be temporarily reduced. This may be the result of maintenance/loss of a fan or air heater/cooler or shaft maintenance. Without proper planning mine operators can be underprepared for these events, and not know how to handle the off-normal operation of a sudden and prolonged temporary reduction in airflow. The complexity of the ventilation systems associated with a block cave mine require unique methodologies and actions to continue operations under reduced ventilation scenarios. By having a strategy in place, the available airflow can be redistributed to predetermined areas in the mine to lessen disruption to production, development, and cave operations. It is also imperative to recognize the safety impacts from the abridged ventilation system, such as the potential for airflow reversals in some areas of the mine, including fixed facilities and between levels. Maintaining legislative airflows can be challenging. It is vital to understand the impact on main and booster fans when the ventilation system is in a state of fluctuation. This paper provides suggestions in generating a plan for temporary reduced ventilation situations in a block cave mine, while maintaining safety and maximizing production. This plan was used in maximizing operations for reduced airflow situations at Oyu Tolgoi Mine.

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