Methane Concentration Measurements in the Longwall Area as a Data Source for the Assessment of Methane Hazard

This article discusses the challenges of coal mine safety, particularly methane hazards, in the context of decreasing workforce and the need for more autonomous solutions. As hard coal production faces a phase-out due to international energy policies, the mining industry struggles with retaining skilled workers. The Sectional Methane Hazard Detection System (SDZM) is proposed as an autonomous solution to detect methane hazards by measuring methane concentrations along underground workings. The system operates using a series of algorithms that analyze the concentration data and identify hazard zones without the need for highly qualified personnel. The SDZM method involves collecting methane concentration data from different sections of the mining operation and comparing them to reference profiles to assess potential hazards. A study conducted in the 841A longwall area of KWK B mine used simulations to assess methane distribution, which was then used to test the SDZM system’s algorithms. The results show that the system can accurately detect high methane hazard levels, with sensitivity varying depending on the parameters set, such as the tolerance field for methane concentration changes. The study concluded that the SDZM system is effective in detecting methane hazards, requiring minimal additional skills from workers. The system’s performance can be enhanced by adjusting parameters like the methane concentration tolerance field, though excessively narrow tolerances could lead to false positives. Overall, the SDZM provides a valuable tool for enhancing safety in mines by autonomously identifying high-risk areas related to methane emissions.