Numerically simulated behavior of diesel particulate matter emitted by hydraulic support transporters

WC55-Y hydraulic support transporters allow an efficient transport of support equipment in fully mechanized mining faces. However, the diesel particulate matter (DPM) emitted by these transporters seriously pollutes the air environment along mine roadways, endangering the health of coal mine workers. In this paper, we simulated the diffusion dispersion of DPM during the functioning of a WC55-Y hydraulic support transporter (emitting high amounts of exhaust pollutants) by computational fluid dynamics, identifying high DPM concentration zones. While the transporter was driven along a coal auxiliary transportation roadway, the diffusion-dispersion characteristics of DPM changed: DPM reached a long horizontal diffusion distance and a high concentration. We found that to avoid the inhalation of DPM and reduce its potential harm, coal mine workers should keep a distance of at least 21.27 m from the hydraulic support transporter while the vehicle runs along the roadway. Moreover, according to our simulation, the operators responsible for disassembling the hydraulic support transporter should wear protective equipment with good filterability while unloading it. Overall, the findings of this study can be applied to outline new work practice guidelines and design new optimum auxiliary ventilation for reducing underground miner exposure to DPM.

Automated summary

WC55-Y hydraulic support transporters are efficient in transporting equipment in fully mechanized mining faces. However, the diesel particulate matter (DPM) emitted by these transporters poses serious air pollution and health risks to coal mine workers. This study used computational fluid dynamics to simulate the diffusion dispersion of DPM during the operation of a WC55-Y hydraulic support transporter, identifying areas of high DPM concentration. The findings suggest that coal mine workers should maintain a distance of at least 21.27 m from the transporter to avoid inhaling DPM, and operators handling the transporter should wear protective equipment with good filtering ability. These findings can be utilized to develop new guidelines and optimize auxiliary ventilation systems to reduce underground miner exposure to DPM.