Analysis of one-day forecasts of the maximum methane concentration in a tailgate of a longwall ventilated with U system - a case study

Methane that is released into the mine atmosphere poses a threat to the miners working there. Methane at concentrations of 5-15% by volume in air is an explosive gas. It has caused devastating explosions in mines all over the world. Therefore, in methane mines, concentration of methane in the face and in the entire mine is controlled through welldesigned ventilation system. This system controls concentration of methane in the mine atmosphere and in the rock mass as well as in the mine goafs. The article’s main objective includes a presentation of a forecast for maximal methane concentration in the determined time interval. Sensors were installed in the gate draining the air from longwall: up to 10 m in front of the longwall and at the roadway exit. Both forecasts were made using prognostic equations, using the measurement data in the ventilation roadway of one of the longwalls at the JSW S.A. mine.