Measurements of Air-Methane Mixture Flow Rate in Mine Fan Duct: A Comparative Study

This article presents the results of precise measurements of the volume flow rate of an air-methane mixture flowing out of a mine shaft and compares them with measurements at the air intakes to the shaft. Continuous measurement of the volume flux of the air-methane mixture in underground mine workings is a complex issue, and given the need to determine methane emissions by mining companies based on quantitative methane measurements in air discharged through ventilation shafts, it represents a current and important problem for both ecological and economic reasons. The development of measurement methods based on a purpose-built instrument was complemented by the creation of a multipoint system for measuring methane velocity and concentration using SOM 2303-type methane anemometers. With the cooperation of the mine, simultaneous measurements were taken in the collection duct of Shaft VI and at all four air intakes to the shaft. The results were presented as determined air and methane fluxes, followed by a comparative analysis of the volume flux measurements taken in the workings at the inlet to Shaft VI.