Numerical study on DPM dispersion and distribution in an underground development face based on dynamic mesh

In 2012, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified diesel particulate matter (DPM) as a carcinogen to human. With the increased usage of diesel equipment in underground mines, miners have a high risk of over-exposure to DPM, which has drawn many concerns from the public. This study used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to analyse the DPM dispersion and concentration distribution characteristics in an underground development face based on an onsite experiment. The DPM emitted from a moving loader under a forcing auxiliary ventilation system was simulated. The motion of the load-haul-dump (LHD) in the tunnel was represented by a dynamic mesh method. The species transport approach was applied to study the DPM behaviours. High DPM concentration zones were then identified based on the simulation results. The results could provide guidelines for work practices and be helpful to an optimum auxiliary ventilation design to reduce underground miner exposure. (C) 2020 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of China University of Mining & Technology.