Energy saving techniques for ventilation fans used in underground coal mines—A survey

As the energy consumption to operate a ventilation system is 25 to 50% of the total energy requirements of an underground coal mine, proper planning, redesign, implementation and maintenance are necessary to achieve energy saving in this potentially viable area. Many researchers all over the world are therefore busy with solution for optimizing the consumption of energy in ventilation system. In this paper, the energy saving possibilities is discussed from different angles and a survey of current research is presented particularly on potential for electrical energy cost saving by implementation of various new technologies/methods. Ventilation demand in coal mines may vary throughout the year and by designing/developing a good ventilation system can not only minimize the cost of energy for the fan but also try to create healthy environment in mine. A number of recent commercially available systems are also reviewed in the paper to get the proper understanding.