Analysis of fire data, large-scale tests, and small-scale tests for conveyor belts used in underground coal mines. Final report

Technical Report · Fri May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1981

OSTI ID:5693642

Braun, E; Meade, R E; Smith, L R

An investigation into the requirements and fire test performance of conveyor belts intended for use in underground coal mines was conduted. The aim of this study was to develop recommendations for the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) on a test method suitable for measuring the fire hazard potential of a conveyor belt in a coal mine environment. A review of incident data, large-scale tests, and small-scale tests was conducted to provide the necessary information. The incident data was analyzed with the goal of developing scenarios that could form the basis for a suitable test to evaluate the appropiateness of the existing test. Large-scale tests were reviewed to determine anticipated belt fire performance under 'realistic' end-use conditions. The tests showed how geometry, input energy, and ventilation controlled belt fire performance. Small-scale tests were used to provide information on specific fire properties such as ease of ignition, flame spread, and smoke generating potential.

• Research Organization: National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5693642
• Report Number(s): PB-81-214884
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT
012000 -- Coal
Lignite
& Peat-- Mining
016000* -- Coal
Lignite
& Peat-- Health & Safety
BELT CONVEYORS
COAL MINES
CONVEYORS
EQUIPMENT
FIRE RESISTANCE
FLAME PROPAGATION
HAULAGE EQUIPMENT
IGNITION
MATERIALS HANDLING
MATERIALS HANDLING EQUIPMENT
MINE HAULAGE
MINES
MINING
UNDERGROUND FACILITIES
UNDERGROUND MINING
VENTILATION