The Use of Ventilation to Assist in the Mitigation of Dust in the Mining Environment

The application of ventilation strategy is an important part of the mitigation plan when designing a ventilation system in a dusty environment. Dust suppression techniques (allayment sprays containing biologic and lignans), filtration, extraction, and sprays all can produce significant impacts on dust generation sources. However, in order for these techniques to be truly effective they must operate within a properly designed ventilation system. 

The overall ventilation system represents the primary method by which dust concentrations can be either diluted or segregated within the mining environment. This presentation covers the overall ventilation system options commonly used within the mining industry to help mitigate dust sources in the underground environment. Practical observations and designs will be identified and described.