CONDITIONS AND METHODS OF APPLYING ARTIFICIAL VENTILATION IN OPEN-PIT MINES

Abstract

Maintaining sanitary and hygienic atmospheric conditions in open-pit mines is an important task in mining engineering. When natural air exchange in a quarry is insufficient, artificial ventilation becomes necessary. Harmful gases and dust accumulate under conditions such as reduced surface wind energy, a vertical temperature gradient lower than the adiabatic gradient, and increased emission of harmful substances into the quarry atmosphere. When surface wind velocity is below 2 m/s, air exchange is mainly controlled by the vertical temperature gradient. Under atmospheric inversion conditions, stagnant air zones may form, leading to the accumulation of harmful substances in deep quarry horizons. Artificial ventilation methods in open pits include intensifying natural air exchange and applying direct artificial ventilation systems. The effectiveness of ventilation depends on factors such as terrain, climate, wind direction and speed, solar radiation, and vegetation. In addition, recirculation ventilation schemes and local ventilation fans can significantly improve air circulation in deep open-pit mines.