Diesel Emissions
The exposure of mine workers to diesel particulate matter (DPM) and gases is an issue of great concern to the underground mining environment.
Diesel engines work by igniting a mixture of fuel (a hydrocarbon) and intake air in the combustion chamber. At high temperatures, fuel may decompose rather than burn, leaving a complex residue in the chamber. Most of the residue will combine with oxygen and burn during later stages of the combustion process. However, the remainder will be emitted from the engine exhaust as solid particulate matter, forming the core of a diesel particulate agglomerated with unburnt hydrocarbons. Incorrect fuel-air ratios may also lead to the formation of organic carbon compounds when hydrocarbons are not fully oxidised during the combustion process.
High use of diesel engines within areas with dead ends or poor ventilation can result in high concentrations of vehicle emissions. Often more than one control is needed to mitigate the risk and reduce personal exposure. Using the hierarchy of controls will help. Engineering controls must be implemented to reduce the risk to as low as possible. Respirators can be used where necessary to help protect the workers.
As industry works to reduce the levels of DPM and harmful Toxic gases to their workers mine operators are looking for feasible methods for reducing DPM concentrations in their mines. In addition, the industry needs methods to accurately measure DPM and exhaust gases to ensure that the control strategies they adopt are working successfully.
The handy, easy-to-operate emission measuring instrument Testo 340 is the right tool for many different emission measurements. The compact design and the reliable technology make it the ideal measuring instrument for commissioning, service and maintenance work and in test measurements on industrial burners, stationary industrial engines, gas turbines, and thermal processes.
The unique measuring range extension allows unrestricted measurements to be carried out even at high gas concentrations. The Testo 340 is equipped with an O2 sensor as standard. Three further gas sensors can be configured individually, in order to be able to adapt the instrument optimally to the respective measurement task. The instrument can also be operated remotely from your Android Smartphone or tablet using the free App.
Supplied with a flue gas probe that is fitted with preliminary filter which provides protection from diesel particulates, metal shaft and handle in order to avoid melting from heat radiated from the exhaust and rated for temperatures up to 1,000 Degrees C.
There is also an optional infrared printer for on the spot record print outs as well as Bluetooth enabled communications for use with smart devices. The durable, tough design of the Testo 340 has it being used in the harshest of conditions including that of the underground mining world.
For more information on the testo 340, click here