ISSN:
1573-1529
Keywords:
Mine transport
;
coal mining
;
coal slurry
;
hydraulic transport
;
dynamic programming
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
Notes:
Summary Underground hydraulic haulage systems (UHHS) are emerging as an alternative to conventional systems with the potential of eliminating haulage bottlenecks, and health and safety hazards in underground coal mines. Currently, identified problems associated with the application of UHHS are: 1. the lack of engineering design data; 2. the need for new equipment development; 3. better instrumentation and control; and 4. the need for optimum design methodology. This paper deals with the fourth problem. A dynamic programming model has been developed to evaluate UHHS in different stages; starting from the coal faces up to a surge bin or to the preparation plant on the surface. Given a system layout and the number of faces, the model determines, at each stage, the equipment (pump-pipe combination) that minimizes the cost per tonne of coal handled. Equipment type, surge capacities, slurry characteristics, and local and cumulative costs are determined at each stage. The paper summarizes the approach, its limitations and underlying assumptions, and demonstrates the use of the model with a numerical example.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00881261
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