Inertisation options for BG method and optimisation using CFD modelling

Spontaneous combustion (sponcom) is one of the issues of concern with the blasting gallery (BG) method of coal mining and has the potential to cause fires, and impact on production and safety, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and huge costs involved in controlling the aftermath situations. Some of the research attempts made to prevent and control coal mine fires and spontaneous combustion in thick seams worked with bord and pillar mining methods are presented in this paper. In the study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling techniques were used to simulate and assess the effects of various mining methods, layouts, designs, and different operational and ventilation parameters on the flow of goaf gases in BG panels. A wide range of parametric studies were conducted to develop proactive strategies to control and prevent ingress of oxygen into the goaf area preventing spontaneous combustion and mine fires.