Simulation of a low intensity explosion phenomenon (2 bars) at the level of the ventilation network relating to the Lupeni mine

¹ National Institute for Research and Development in Mine Safety and Protection to Explosion – INSEMEX, 32-34 G-ral Vasile Milea Street, Petroșani, Hunedoara, Romania
² University of Petrosani – 20, University Street, Petroșani, Hunedoara, Romania

^* Corresponding author: ion.gherghe@insemex.ro

Abstract

In order to ensure the optimal level of occupational health and safety, a whole series of technical measures are taken for underground activities. However, in accidental situations, generated by ignoring dangerous situations or violating occupational health and safety regulations, explosion-type phenomena occur with extremely severe repercussions in terms of loss of human lives, destruction of electromechanical equipment, as well as temporary immobilization or total loss of coal reserves. The effect of an underground explosion affects the main ventilation station in relation to the distance from the explosion site, these effects can be non-destructive or destructive. This article presents a simulation of a low-intensity explosion (2 bars) in the ventilation network of the Lupeni mine, with the aim of identifying critical areas and proposing safety measures. Using the specialized ventilation network modeling and solving program - Ventsim Visual Design, the simulation highlights the propagation of the shock wave within the galleries and identifies vulnerable points. The paper provides a detailed analysis of the effects of the explosion on the general ventilation, as well as recommendations for improving the ventilation infrastructure. In paper will present the results obtained from the simulation of a small intensity explosion phenomenon (2 bars) on the ventilation network of the Lupeni mine.