CFD simulation of methane dispersion dynamics

¹ National Institute for Research and Development in Mine Safety and Protection to Explosion – INSEMEX, 32-34 G-ral Vasile Milea Street, Petroșani, Hunedoara, Romania
² University of Petroșani, 20 University Street, Petroșani, Romania

¹ Author to whom all correspondence should be addressed: E-mail: doru.cioclea@insemex.ro

Abstract

Anthropogenic activities involve the extraction, transformation and use of natural resources. During the process of extracting useful mineral substances on the surface or underground, particles or gases appear in the work environment resulting from the removal or natural release from the rock mass. The process of transforming useful mineral substances takes place on the surface in closed premises and involves the use of complex technological processes. During these, gases, fog, dust or powders of an explosive or toxic nature can be released or reach the working atmosphere. Industrial pollutants in confined spaces are released into the atmosphere for worker safety. If workers are caught in fires or explosions caused by flammable or explosive substances, morbidity is extremely high. The paper presents the CFD analysis regarding the determination of methane dispersion dynamics at the level of a closed enclosure. Through the CFD analysis, the methane flow and dispersion paths were identified, respectively the areas with minimum concentrations in order to safely evacuate the workers.