Modelling of Methane Explosions and Fault Arcing in Flameproof Mining Enclosures

Abstract

A model is described that facilitates calculation of pressure rise due to internal fault arcing in flameproof enclosures of the type used in underground coal mines. In the model arc energy is assumed to heat the gas in the flameproof enclosure, the only energy loss from the gas being by mass loss through flamepaths around the enclosure lids. Calculations are compared with measurements made with flameproof equipment, and the effect of initial flamepath width on pressure rise is established.