Elimination of diatomite dust in the longwall extraction section of the Sig mine in western Algeria

Abstract

Research relevance. Dust generated by mining machines due to continuous loading and transport equipment movement especially in mines with no optimal ventilation conditions is a major problem for decision-makers. Dust directly affects mine capacity and exposes workers' lives to a risk of chronic disease due to the inhalation of large quantities of this dust and toxic gases during a seven-hour or eight-hour shift. Dust control methods in longwall mines vary from one mine to another, depending on ore composition. Research aim. In this article we will examine the current flow process of eliminating dust in the longwall working section and propose another process to ensure optimal working conditions in the diatomite mine. Methodology. Analysis of the technical equipment which is currently used in mining and geological operations and evaluation of its application at the facility under study represents a relevant approach to production efficiency improvement. The present research considers the possibility of using the floodedbed scrubber system which was mainly used in underground coal mines to monitor dust in the longwall section. It has been evaluated how efficient the scrubber absorbs the dust generated as a results of the mineralized layer extraction, the concentration of the coal dust in the working section making up from 0.7 to 8.8 mg/m3, while the dust produced during the extraction of the mineralized layer in the underground diatomite deposit is 0.38–1.21 mg/m3 in the working section. Research results. The research resulted in the positive attitude towards the possibility of applying the flooded-bed scrubber, which is used in coal mines, at the longwall extraction sections of the Sig mine. It will significantly reduce the concentration of dust in the longwall section. Conclusion. In order to set the appropriate working environment inside the mine, an effective method of removing dust must be developed, it is especially important to remove dust during work, which will contribute greatly to boosting productivity and reducing diseases among workers.