Using the diesel engines in machines and vehicles in underground mine workings, especially in explosive atmospheres

Abstract

Efficient transport of materials and personnel is crucial for an efficient operation of a mining plant. Transport powered by diesel engines is widely used in mines due to its mobility. This article outlines the requirements that diesel engines operating underground must meet. These requirements particularly impact the design of engines operating in mine workings with a potentially explosive atmospheres. Due to operation in confined spaces, the quality of the engine's exhaust gases is also crucial, and increasingly stringent requirements have been imposed over the years. This article discusses the design of a diesel engine intended for operation in potentially explosive atmospheres, in light of the current requirements. Commonly used methods for improving the exhaust gases quality in surface engines are discussed, as well as the technical challenges associated with adapting them to engines operating underground. An example engine introduced to the market by a leading mining machinery manufacturer is presented.