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Horton, Director TA/2 9S' ■U y This publication has been cataloged as follows: Minerals health and safety in-house and contract research, de- velopment, and demonstration in fiscal year 1982. (Information circular - U.S. Bureau of Mines ; 8872) Supt. of Docs, no.: I 28.27:8872. 1. Mine safety— United States. I. United States. Bureau of Mines. Division of Minerals Health and Safety Technology. II. Se- ries: United States. Bureau of Mines, Information circular ; 8872. TN295.U4 622'.8'0973 80-607005 AACRl CONTENTS Page Abstract. 1 Introduction 1 Program outline 2 Part I . — In-house research 2 Health 2 Resplrable dust 2 Control of dust formation. 2 Control of generated dust 2 Dust Instrumentation and measurement 3 Radiation hazards 4 Control of radiation hazards 4 Radiation Instrumentation and measurement 4 Test facilities 5 Noise control 5 Industrial hygiene. •.•••*• 5 Toxic gases and materials 5 Diesel engines and alternative power sources. 6 Ventilation 6 Safety 7 Fires and explosion prevention 7 Prevention research 7 Ignition research 7 Suppression research 8 Propagation research 8 Extinguishment research. 8 Detection, Instrumentation, and alarm 9 Methane control 9 Fundamental factors 9 Control In advance of mining. 10 Control during mining 10 Ground control 10 Mine design and development 10 Hazard detection and monitoring systems 13 Roof support systems.. 15 Safe support Installation 17 Mining and minerals processing waste stability.. 19 Industrial-type hazards 20 Human factors 20 Electrical 21 Equipment 21 Illtimlnatlon 22 Communication-monitoring 23 Haulage material handling 23 Postdlsaster 24 Survival 24 Communications 24 Rescue and mine recovery 25 Explosives 25 Explosives and blasting 25 Systems engineering 26 Systems analysis 27 Test facilities 27 ii CONTENTS — Continued Page Part II. — Contract research 28 Health 28 Resplrable dust 28 Control of dust formation 28 Control of generated dust 28 Dust Instrumentation and measurement 30 Radiation hazards 30 Control of radiation hazards 30 Radiation instrumentation and measurement 30 Noise control 30 Industrial hygiene 32 Toxic gases and materials 32 Diesels 33 Ventilation 34 Safety 34 Fires and explosion prevention 34 Prevention research 34 Suppression research 35 Propagation research 35 Detection, instrumentation, and alarm research. 35 Methane control 36 Control during mining. 37 Ground control 37 Mine design and development 37 Hazard detection and monitoring systems 38 Roof support systems 38 Safe support installation 38 Mining and minerals processing waste stability 40 Industrial hazards 40 Human factors 40 Electrical 42 Equipment 42 Illumination 43 Comnunicatlons-monitoring. 44 Haulage and materials handling 45 Postdisaster 46 Survival 46 Communications 46 Rescue and mine recovery 47 Explosives • 47 Blasting practices 48 Systems engineering 48 Systems analysis 48 Test facilities 48 MINERALS HEALTH AND SAFETY IN-HOUSE AND CONTRACT RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION IN FISCAL YEAR 1982 by Staff, Division of Minerals Health and Safety Technology ABSTRACT This publication summarizes, for potential contractors and all other interested parties, the research, devel- opment, and demonstration of in-house and contract projects programmed by the Bureau of Mines for fiscal year 1982 (October 1, 1981-September 30, 1982) under its Minerals Health and Safety Technology program. The objective of these projects is to provide an ordered and sequenced series of advance toward the Bureau's overall goal of providing the systems technology required to create a more healthful and safer working envir- onment for the Nation's mining and min- erals processing workers. INTRODUCTION The Bureau of Mines conducts a bal- anced, continuing in-house research and development program to accelerate sys- tematic improvements in health and safety conditions in U.S. mines. Part I of this report outlines the Bureau's present in- house effort to all interested parties; in particular, potential contractors can refer to it when submitting USP's (unso- licited proposals) , thus avoiding propos- ing research that duplicates work being performed by the Bureau. It is the policy of the Bureau of Mines to utilize as fully as possible the capabilities of the private sector in minerals research, and to that end Part II of this report outlines the Bureau's current projected contract research needs. The projects presented were planned at the beginning of the fiscal year and are subject to change based on emerg- ing priorities and availability of funds. Contingencies may require that a significant portion of the program be deferred into fiscal year 1983 (FY 83) or beyond. It is important to realize that since this is a summary document, the project descriptions related to a design, fabrications, and demonstration effort do not necessarily imply total package procurement. Contracts for the Minerals Health and Safety Research program will be con- ducted in strict accordance with Federal Procurement Regulations. Availability of requests for proposals (RFP's) will be formally advertised in the Commerce Busi- ness Daily. No additional information will be supplied on these projects until after the RFP's are made available and then only in strict accordance with prescribed procedures. This document is not intended to solicit proposals from the contracting community. All USP's whose content reflects the objective(s) of the proposed projects listed herein will be returned without formal review. PROGRAM OUTLINE The objective of the Minerals Health and Safety Technology program is to pro- tect the health and safety of mining and minerals processing workers while insur- ing that newly developed technology incorporates health and safety criteria. In achieving this objective, four funda- mental and complementary requirements must be considered by the research pro- gram, as follows: 1. Contributing to the viability of a basic industry. Minerals Health and Safety Technology program is divided into 12 subprogram areas as shown: Health Respirable dust Radiation hazards Noise control Industrial hygiene Ventilation Safety 2. Sustaining productivity. 3. Allowing for a return on papltal Investment. 4. Providing material and energy to the public. Fires and explosion prevention Methane control Ground control Industrial-type hazards Postdisaster Explosives Systems engineering Since mining and minerals processing The objectives of these subprograms are involve a highly integrated and inter- related set of functions , the program has been divided into a set of interrelated subprograms, each with goals that will provide systems technology solutions to the problems within the framework of these fundamental requirements. The described in the following pages, fol- lowed by the planned projects and their corresponding descriptions. The aggre- gate value of the planned in-house proj- ects is approximately $21 million and of the anticipated contracts, $19 million. PART I. —IN-HOUSE RESEARCH Health Respirable Dust Program Objectives : To develop pro- cedures for controlling the respirable dusts that still constitute the severest health problem facing the mining and mineral processing industries. To devel- op and/or improve techniques and equip- ment to prevent formation of hazardous dust concentrations, and to protect min- ers against dusty atmospheres. Control of Dust Formation 1. Reduction of Airborne Coal Dust With Increased Machine Efficiency Objective : To develop background information of a fundamental nature on coal cutting technology that supports long-term solution to problems of primary dust generation during coal cutting. To continue to determine the effect of cut- ting speed and the behavior of the dust cloud as it is ejected from the coal- cutter interface. To continue coopera- tive effort with Sandia Laboratories to develop a long-life, low-dust bit design based on the use of diamond compacts. Control of Generated Dust 2. Dust Control by Chemicals and Chemical Additives Objective : To continue to identify and develop the most cost-effective chemical dust controls for specific applications in surface and underground mines. To develop guidelines for selec- tion and use of chemical wetting agents through optimization of the sink and cap- illary rise tests. 3. Development of Improved Dust Control Technologies for Coal Mines Objective : To continue to develop and evaluate improved dust control tech- niques in underground coal mines based on shrouded high-pressure sprays. Conduct surveys of longwall faces to relate dust concentrations and engineering parameters on those sections which are not in com- pliance with the 2 mg/m^ standard. Transfer technology developed under con- tracts and in-house projects to the industry. 4. Dust Control Technologies for Metal and Nonmetal Mines and Processing Mills Objective ; To continue to conduct preliminary studies leading to develop- ment of improved dust control techniques for metal and nonmetal mines and mineral processing mills. To evaluate various preconditioning agents and their effect on lowering overall dust levels in pro- cessing plants. To demonstrate the fea- sibility and effectiveness of using a Bureau-developed, small, dry dust col- lector at a surface processing facility. To conduct field studies to define the effective dust protection factor of the Racal dust helmet. 5. Survey of Dust Control Problems Objective ; To determine the size distribution, concentration, and chemical conq)osition of airborne particles in selected metal and nonmetal, diesel and nondiesel underground mines. Typical values and overall range of values shall be determined for the size distribution of quartz (free silica), diesel particu- late, and selected trace elements and confounds. 6. Analysis of MSHA Health and Safety Inspection Data From Metal and Nonmetal Mines Objective ; Provide Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and Bureau personnel with trend analyses of airborne contaminant data and isolate locations and operations in specific min- eral industries where respirable dust exposures are excessive. Additionally, historical summaries will be provided to MSHA and/or Bureau personnel interested in specific research areas (that is, noise, clay-shale, dusts, welding fumes), and labor statistics will be associated with each MSHA operation code. Dust Instrumentation and Measurement 7. Respirable Dust Measurement and Instrumentation Evaluation Objective ; To initiate exploratory work on the design of coal mine respir- able dust monitoring strategies for con- trol of the miner's exposure. Continue to conduct short-term evaluation of newly developed instruments and measurement techniques. To seek out new aerosol detection techniques and determine feasi- bility of applying them to the measure- ment needs of the mining industry. To maintain an aerosol laboratory and con- tinue to improve the in-house expertise in aerosol measurement. 8. Characterization of Airborne Coal Dust Objective ; To determine the size distribution of mineral particulates in coal dust samples with special emphasis on size of silica particles as related to type of mining operation and mineralogy of the inorganic constituents in the coal. To evaluate existing methods for silica determination in coal dust. Infrared, X-ray, and electron microscopic methods will be emphasized. Emphasis will be given to evaluating the effect of grain size on the magnitude of the analytical signal and methods to reduce this grain size dependence. To determine the silica content of selected samples provided by MSHA and other agencies. Radiation Hazards Program Objectives ; To develop and provide new and improved measurement instrumentation and control technology for protection of miners from exposure to radon and radon daughters and other nuclear radiation hazards in uranium and other mines. Control of Radiation Hazards 1. Radon Control Technology Objective : To continue modeling on the computer the effects of positive pressure ventilation and barometric pres- sure on the radon concentration using various permeability, diffusion, and por- osity coefficients. Begin to develop computer programs to model ventilation effects and control of radiation hazards. To conduct preliminary studies under mem- orandum of agreement with two mining com- panies to determine the major sources of radon from intake to exhaust and the effects of fan shutdown (both surface and underground) on the radon-radon daughter concentrations in the mine. To continue laboratory and mine studies of transport of radon by water, dewatering of mill tailings slime for backfilling, and posi- tive pressure ventilation. 2. Control of Radiation Hazards Through Air Cleaning Objective ; To continue research on the use of air-cleaning techniques for removal of radon daughters from under- ground mine atmospheres. Emphasis will be on performance of various prototype air-cleaning systems with regard to their efficiency in removing daughter products and their useful life expectancy in a uranium mine environment. To conduct a preliminary feasibility study of using high-velocity electrostatic air cleaners in mine ventilation tubing. To provide necessary technical assistance to the contractor during testing phase of a pro- totype air-cleaning system. Radiation Instrumentation and Measurement 3. Electronic Radon Daughter Personal Dosimeter Objective ; To continue development and keep abreast of work in the area of radon daughter personal dosimetry. To engage in necessary technology transfer by providing technical assistance to potential users. 4. Personal Exposure Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Objective ; To conduct laboratory and field studies on instrumentation and methods for exposure measurement related to the miner's exposure to ionizing radi- ation hazards with emphasis on the mea- surement of radon daughter products. To evaluate the measurement of radon as a standard for exposure control and inves- tigate radon dosimeters. To evaluate the effects of trace gases on the accuracy of radon measurements. To continue coopera- tive studies of passive radon detectors and active working level detectors. To continue the development of continuous detector systems for measuring working levels and radon. 5. Radiation Warning System for Uranium Mines Objective ; To continue field evalu- ation of full system at large uranium mining operations. To demonstrate stand- alone detector at smaller operations. To revise software and hardware to reflect improvements suggested by previous field tests. Modifications shall also be added to enable ventilation and other parameter monitoring. Test Facilities 6. Lease and Operate the Twilight Mine Objective ; To operate and maintain an underground uranium mine as a test facility to provide typical mine environ- mental conditions for research and devel- opment studies conducted by the Bureau of Mines, MSHA, other Government agencies, and outside contractors in the area of radiation hazards. To continue to uti- lize the facility for the conduct of training sessions for MSHA, State, and industry personnel involved in measuring radon, radon daughter, and gamma ray exposures in mines. This training is done in cooperation with MSHA. Noise Control Program Obj ect ives ; To identify noise sources in underground and surface mines and in related mineral cleaning and preparation facilities, and to abate these noise sources sufficiently to meet Federal noise exposure standards. degree of noise reduction provided in the field. The in-mine performance of per- sonal hearing protectors is to be estab- lished, along with procedures and equip- ment to make in-mine measurement of hearing protector performance. Industrial Hygiene (Toxic Substances) Program Objectives ; To identify and control health hazards in surface and underground mines and mineral processing plants caused by toxic gases and fumes, and certain particulates produced by explosives, combustible materials, and diesel engines. To develop and evaluate new instrumentation for monitoring these substances. To develop and/or refine analytical techniques for measuring and characterizing toxic substances, and investigate methods for controlling the formation and accumulation of toxic prod- ucts. To analyze alternative power sources that may have health advantages over existing mine diesels. Toxic Gases and Materials 1. Development of Noise Control Techniques for Coal Mining Machinery Objective ; To further the implemen- tation of noise control techniques to the mining industry. This will be accom- plished via equipment development and dissemination of information. 2. Noise Study of Lead and Other Metal-Nonmetal Mining in the Central United States Objective ; To identify work areas in metal and nonmetal mines where noise exposure of personnel is most severe and the need for noise control technology is most urgent. 3. Measurement of Noise Reduction Provided by Hearing Protectors Worn by Miners Objective ; To investigate methods of evaluating hearing protector perform- ance that could be used to determine the 1. Explosive Fume Characterization Objective ; To establish the rela- tionship between toxic fumes produced in a 38,000-liter chamber and those produced in the Bichel Gage and C-J Apparatus and relate these to actual explosive fumes from in-mine measurements. To carry out fume measurements on all types of mining explosives including blasting agents and establish standard test procedures for the measurement of toxic fumes. 2. Improved Instruments for Mine Gases Objective ; To evaluate and verify the performance of commercially available or contract-developed instrvments and devices for noxious and toxic gases. To acquire instruments and devices and evaluate their operation under varying conditions of temperature, humidity, and pressure. To determine the stability, accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and applicability to measure noxious and toxic gases in the mining environ- ment. To assess air quality monitoring strategies and methods to determine their effectiveness in the underground mine environment. To develop a portable, self-contained diesel exhaust gas ana- lyzer which is mine rugged. Diesel Engines and Alternative Power Sources 6. Control of Diesel Exhaust Contaminants 3. Measurement and Control of Welding Fumes Objective : To assess related in- dustry practices pertaining to measure- ment and control of welding and cutting fumes, dust, and radiation, and adapt this technology to confined work areas found in the mining environment. To detenuine the quantity and character of welding pollutants and personnel exposure levels. To propose control systems and/or isolation techniques to . reduce or eliminate exposure to toxic sub- stances resulting from welding and cutting. 4. Thermal Stress — Measurement and Protection Objective ; To develop a realistic, practical means to assess the high- temperature, high-humidity environments of the hot, deep, underground mines. To determine heat stress conditions in the mines which are detrimental to worker health. To evaluate the Imminent Danger Heat Stress Index programmed in a Hewlett-Packard 41C hand calculator in a human laboratory and in the mining environment. 5. Mercury Vapor Suppression in Mercury Ore Processing Objective ; To determine the condi- tions under which mercury vapor is released during grinding and froth flota- tion operations, and correlate these con- ditions with measured levels of vapor emmissions. To develop a hydrometal- lurgical alternative to the present roasting process for processing mercury concentrates into the pure metal. Objective ; To supplement contract research in the control and analysis of diesel exhaust emissions. To measure am- bient contaminants and correlate with emissions data. To investigate control systems for contaminants by means of lab- oratory experiments. To devise and select analytical procedures for emission control systems and components at the tailpipe and ambient levels. 7. Investigation of Emission Controls for Diesel Engines Operated Underground and Alternative Power Source Assessment Objective : To identify potential methods and hardware applicable for use as emission controls for turbocharged mine diesels. To review the literature as to the current state of knowledge per- taining to the use of internal combustion engines operating underground. To study applications of diesel equipment in new mining systems such as oil shale. To assess alternative power sources that may have health and operational advantages over existing mine diesels. Ventilation Program Objectives : To develop ven- tilation systems required to maintain a safe and healthful atmosphere conducive to efficient work output in noncoal mines . 1. Development of Improved Ventilation Technology for Noncoal Mines and Mills Objective ; To develop improved technologies for ventilating and cooling s topes and development headings in hot metal and nonmetal mines. To develop im- proved and safe methods of heating shafts in winter to prevent ice buildups and to make the transport of personnel comfort- able. To continue to develop methods of ventilating dead-ended working headings in metal and nonmetal mines. Safety Fire and Explosion Prevention Program Objectives : To reduce the potential for fire or explosion in min- eral extraction and processing opera- tions; to minimize the danger to people on account of fires or explosions that do occur. Prevention Research 1. Flammability of Mine Combustibles — Worn Belts, Containers, Brattice Cloth, and Electrical Spray Cleaners Objective : (1) Evaluate flammabil- ity hazard of worn conveyor belts, aero- sol sprays, and oil-grease containers. (2) Determine adequacy of current tests fo foam materials. (3) Develop small- scale flame test for brattice cloth. 2. Control of Float Dust Objective : (1) Perform field demon- strations of engineering techniques such as water sprays and dust collectors to control float coal dust; (2) simultane- ously, perform field tests of a new remote dust deposition monitor and new in-mine incombustible meter. 3. Float Dust Formation and Deposition Objective : Redesign trickle duster to give size distribution of rock dust which more closely matches that of float coal dust. 4. Improved Bit Materials for Continuous Coal Mining Machines Objective : To reduce frictional ignitions by improving the materials or the configuration of materials used in coal-cutter bits on continuous-mining machines. 5. Fire and Explosion Properties of Oil Shale Objective ; Continue to test fire and explosion hazard scenarios in large- scale tests involving bulk and dust samples; monitor methane emissions in operating oil shale mines; and conduct laboratory evaluations of spontaneous combustion of oil shale and explosibility of retort gas. 6. Fire and Explosion Hazards of Oil Mining Objective ; In collaboration with industry, develop and test fire and explosion scenarios in oil mines, test total combustible meters, and propose hazard prevention guidelines. Ignition Research 7. Laboratory Dust Flammability Testing Objective : To develop a reliable standard apparatus and procedure for evaluating flammability limits and pres- sure development for pure dusts in air and for dust-fuel gas mixtures in air. To correlate the data with full-scale mine studies. To investigate new, prac- tical inhibitors as supplements to rock dusting. To investigate the adequacy of current rock dusting requirements in gassy mines. 8. Spontaneous Combustion of Mine Combustibles and Modeling for Coal, Oil Shale, and Sulfide Ore Objective ; To investigate spontane- ous heating of mine combustibles includ- ing coal, oil shale, and purites and to develop reliable combustion criteria for identifying incipient mine fire hazards. To develop a mathematical model of spon- taneous combustion in piles of coal, oil shale, and pyrites. 9. Ignition Hazard of Sintered Metal Brake Linings Objective : To determine extent of the methane ignition hazard when using sintered metallic friction components in the braking systems of underground coal mining equipment. If a hazard exists, develop an evaluation method including suggested guidelines. 10. Thermal Ignition of Coal Dust Objective ; Determine the mechanism of ignition of dust clouds and layers and delineate the effectiveness of methods of preventing ignition. 11. Bit Parameters for Methane Ignition Reduction Objective ; Perform fundamental studies to improve bit design and define best bit usage to reduce the probability of methane ignitions caused by frictional impact heating during cutting. 12. Pacification of Sulfide Oxidation Objective : Determine the kinetics and mechanisms of low-temperature oxida- tion of sulfides, particularly pyrite, to identify the rate controlling step(s). Apply the results of this study to iden- tify chemical and physical inhibitors and validate in mines the ability of these inhibitors to prevent or retard sulfide oxidation and reduce the probability o^ mine fires and the resultant loss of property and life. 13. Retorting Process Ignition Hazards Objective : Make an assessment of potential hazards associated with in situ retorting process. Identify possible retort gas compositions, and hazardous scenarios. Identify those areas that should fall under hazardous area classi- fication. Identify the most dangerous parameter configurations and the techni- cal information necessary to ensure safe operation. Generate the necessary data. Make recommendations to MSHA regarding future safety regulations. Suppression Research 14. Explosion and Fire Ignition Prevention and Suppression Objective ; Develop, test, and con- duct field trials of new tool bit mate- rials and/or tool bit geometries for the prevention of face ignitions; barriers for the suppression of face ignitions; barriers for the suppression of gas and coal dust explosions. 15. Fire-Suppression System Component Ruggedization and Fi re-Resistant Water-Glycol Fluid Objective ; Develop improved rug- gedized fire-protection hardware and pro- cedures for mobile mining equipment. Also, monitor development by Government and industry of water-glycol fire- resistant hydraulic fluids. 16. Improved Mine Fire Protection Objective ; Improve fire safety in underground metal and nonmetal mines through tests of Improved early fire warning systems in the FMC Corp. Green River Mine, AMAX Henderson Mine, and Noranda Lakeshore Mine. Propagation Research 17. Full-Scale Mine Explosion Research and Bulkhead Tests Objective ; To conduct research on the propagation and suppression of full- scale explosions of dust and gas in experimental mines; to develop and main- tain instrumentation in both the experi- mental mine and in Lake Lynn Laboratory; to evaluate the strength and endurance of explosion-proof bulkheads and water seals using full size candidate bulkhead with appropriate anchorage. Extinguishment Research 18. Sealed Mine Fires Objective : Develop needed guide- lines for safe reopening of a mine following the sealing of a coal mine fire and evaluate reliability of fire- detection systems. Detection, Instrtmientation, and Alarm 19. Evaluate Detection Systems for Fires in Mine Passageways Objective ; (1) To develop adequate fire sensors and sensing methodologies; (2) to define detection criteria and associated guidelines for the optimum deplo3mient of sensors and sensing systems for early warning of fires. 20. Microscopic Structure and Composition of Combustible Dusts and Residues Objective ; To determine pre- and post-explosion information on the surface characteristics, size distribution and compositional distribution of (1) combus- tible dusts, (2) mixtures of dusts and inhibitors, and (3) the effects of added methane on those surface characteristics, and to use such information for post- disaster investigations. 21. Remote Methane Detection Objective ; To determine the Raman scattering properties of methane and other flammable gases; to develop and demonstrate on the laboratory scale remote measurement techniques for methane. 22. Mine (Fire) Ventilation, Code, Modification, and Maintenance Objective ; The improvement of the applicability, utility, and acceptability of the mine (fire) ventilation simulation computer program developed by Michigan Technological University (under con- tract J0285002) for the Bureau. Methane Control Program Objectives ; To develop , demonstrate, and transfer technology that will prevent the formation of flammable methane-air mixtures in underground mine workings through improved ventilation and procedures for degasifying the mineral deposit in advance of and during mining. To establish correlations between the geology of the mineral, adjacent strata, and their gas content, and to use these correlations to predict methane emission hazards. Fundamental Factors 1. The Origin and Geologic Influences on the Migration of Methane Into Metal and Nonmetal Mines Objective ; To establish, by means of data obtained by in-mine and labora- tory studies, the stratigraphy and geo- logical structures that contribute to varying concentrations of gases within metal and nonmetal mines; to determine the composition of gases and the factors that influence the migration and reten- tion of these gases into metal and non- metal mines; and to develop predictive models for the occurrence of gassy areas within the ore bodies in advance of mining. 2. Influence of Geology on Occurrence and Emission of Methane in Coal Measures Objective ; To conduct geologic investigations of gassy, minable coalbeds to determine the factors controlling the amount and distribution of methane, and the effect on mining; determine the gas contents of U.S. coalbeds and improve predictive techniques; determine the influence of coal macerals on gas gen- eration and retention; aid in assessing the geologic feasibility of proposed methane drainage sites. 3. Prediction of Coalbed Discontinuities to Increase Effectiveness of Drilling for Methane Drainage Objective ; To determine fundamental geological criteria that can be used to predict the presence of coalbed discon- tinuities in advance of mining and to refine statistical techniques that can be used to evaluate the probability of 10 encountering discontinuities during meth- ane drainage drilling. Particular empha- sis will be placed upon those discon- tinuity characteristics that adversely affect methane drainage projects. Control in Advance of Mining 4. Application of Vertical Borehole Methane Drainage to Mine Safety Objective : By demonstrating the feasibility of draining gas in advance of mining from gassy coalbeds through verti- cal boreholes, this project will deter- mine the effects of borehole spacing and methods of stimulation on reducing meth- ane gas emissions into mine workings. 5. Investigation of Available Technology for Directional Drilling of Coalbeds 8. Gob Degasif ication From Underground Locations Objective : To determine if methane emissions from gob areas of longwall pan- els can be effectively controlled by drilling small-diameter boreholes into the overlying strata from within the mine before longwall mining begins. 9. Ventilation in Control of Methane Objective : To reduce mine air leak- age by improving mine stopping construc- tion methods and materials and to develop better methods of ventilating the working sections of coal mines. 10. Design and Development Improved Horizontal Drilling Equipment for Methane Drainage Objective : To improve the technol- ogy of directional drilling for removing methane from coalbeds in advance of mining. Objective : To design and develop faster and longer reach horizontal drill- ing equipment for use in underground mine methane drainage projects. Control During Mining 6. Application of Horizontal Drilling Technology to Health and Safety Problems in Metal and Nonmetal Mines Objective : To conduct detailed analysis of methods for locating and identifying gas-bearing in metal and non- metal mines by drilling small-diameter holes in advance of mining, and to Inves-, tigate techniques for reducing or elimi- nating the hazards associated with the rapid release of energy (outbursts) when mining encounters the gas-bearing zones. 7. Development of Control Techniques Using Horizontal Boreholes Objective : To determine the effec- tiveness of long, horizontal boreholes on reducing methane levels during mining through natural drainage, and to deter- mine the application of drilling in advance of mining to locate and identify areas, such as clay veins, fault zones, and other coalbed discontinuities, that may cause problems for future mining. Ground Control Program Objectives : To conceive, develop, demonstrate, and transfer tech- nology that will prevent mine accidents attributable to falls of ground, out- bursts, slope failures, and collapse of waste impoundment structures. Mine Design and Development 1. Delineation of Abandoned Mine Workings and Other Mining Hazards With Integrated Geophysics Objective : Field test high- resolution seismics, acoustic seismics, radar, resistivity measurement, and controlled-source tellurics over known abandoned mine workings. The data from these tests will be processed with the latest integrated geophysics modeling, and reverifies with onsite drilling. Further development of three-dimensional radar and seismic techniques will also be covered. 11 2. Use of High Resolution Resistivity System To Locate Abandoned Mine Workings Objective ; Establish operational techniques for using high-resolution resistivity to detect old abandoned mines in proximity to current mine activities and to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method for hazard detection in a variety of mining areas. and floor rocks when estimating pillar strength that occurs when coal is tested between platens made of rock, rather than of steel. The potential Impact of roof and floor rocks on the application of laboratory test data to coal mine design, and on future test methods, will be determined. 7. Entry Design for Longwall Mining on Steeply Pitching Coal Seams 3. Computerized Remote Sensing Techniques for Detection of Potential Hazards in Mine Areas Objective : Refine and demonstrate to the mining industry the use and the advantages of a developed computerized remote sensing technique for the detec- tion of geologic hazards, which may cause sudden inundation and roof falls. A secondary objective is to determine the optimum satellite image types and scales for hazard detection. 4. Develop Improved Coal Mine Design Procedures Objective ; Develop the practical application of analytical techniques to a coal mine design using the MIN SIM-type computer program and the confined core pillar design method, and demonstrate their use in designing safer coal mine openings, pillar, and extraction layouts. 5. Evaluation of Room-and-Plllar Design Methods Objective : Evaluate existing pub- lished pillar design methods, select the more promising, modify and develop new methods, test selected methods in mines, and publish the most practical and useful methods in as-deslgn guidelines for room- and-plllar mines. 6. Influence of Roof and Floor Rocks on the Strength of Coal Pillars Objective ; Demonstrate the need to account for the properties of the roof Objective : Demonstrate the appli- cation of computer modeling techniques to planning of a longwall coal mine opera- tion in a steeply pitching seam, with emphasis on establishing an optimum safe entry width as a function of overburden depth. 8. Analysis of Cutter Roof in Coal Mines Using the Finite Element Method Objective : Demonstrate the practi- cal applicability of the finite-element structural analysis method in establish- ing the cause and predicting the forma- tion of a cutter-roof failure, and deter- mine design alternatives that reduce the occurrence of cutter-type roof falls in coal mines. 9. Face Slabbing Along High Longwall Faces in the Western United States Objective ; Investigate the face slabbing problem along high longwall faces in the Western United States and devise remedial measures for trial for controlling face slabbing to Improve safety, increase production, and increase coal recovery. 10. Assessment of Clay Vein and Sllkenside Support Techniques Objective ; Determine the various support procedures and mechanisms used on clay veins of various types and assess the support techniques in terms of their effectiveness and appropriateness for particular structural details of clay veins. 12 1 1. Development of Classification of Mine Roof According to Support Mechanism Efficiency Objective : Develop a systematic framework for classifying mine roofs based on observed effective control tech- niques. Data already collected from 22 mines will be analyzed to aid oper- ators in selecting the best available roof system for their mines. 12. Anchorage of Inundation Bulkheads in Coal Mine Openings Objective ; Test and evaluate the various methods of anchoring inundation bulkheads in underground coal mine open- ings and develop a handbook of inundation bulkhead design and construction. The testing will encompass the range of fac- tors that affect anchorage, such as deterioration with time, water pressure, environmental constraints, and the mate- rial composition of roof, floor, and ribs. 13. Development of Design Procedure to be Used in Layout of Workings In Multiple-Seam Mining Situations Objective ; Development of a tech- nique to assess the impacts (from the point of view of vertical pressure peaks) of a mine layout in the vicinity of a previously mined seam. This will be accomplished by inputing the description of the old workings, and proposed layout for the new workings. The resulting ver- tical pressure contours in the nev; work- ings will be calculated and output in an iterative mode until the designer is sat- isfied with the resulting pressure con- tour data. 14. Prediction of Unstable Mine Roof Based on Remote Sensing Analysis Objective : Verify the relationship between photo linears and unstable roofs and identify the geologic features associated with the photo linears on two mines for which aerial photographic and/or satellite imagery analysis has been done. 15. Full-Scale Model Testing of Roof Bolting Systems Objective : Perform full-scale model tests of roof bolting systems using the SRC Model Roof Bolt Test System. Also, replace the model mine opening with a new set of concrete slabs for the next series of tests. 16. Analytical Modeling and Field Verification of Roof Bolting Criteria Objective ; Develop guidelines for roof reinforcement using mechanically anchored bolts, fully grouted bolts, friction stabilizers, inorganic grouted bolts, inclined bolts, and roof truss systems. Characterize the field condi- tions best suited for each method. Vali- date the most tenable rock bolt support theories developed by previously com- pleted contract research. 17. Safety Procedures for Reducing Roof Falls Due to Swelling and Slaking Roof Rock Objective ; Measuring surface prop- erties, bulk properties, and the shear strength of coal measure rocks during wet-dry cycles, establish "damage factor" and "durability index, " and develop pro- cedures to mitigate roof falls that may result from swelling, slaking, and weak- ening effects of coal measure rocks due to humidity changes. 18. Engineering Properties of Coal Measure Rocks in the Illinois Coal Basin Objective ; Develop engineering property data for ground control application and geophysical detection of geologic hazards in the Illinois Coal Basin. Core and rock samples from various localities in that region will be tested to determine mechanical properties including uniaxial and tensile strengths, triaxial shear strength, acoustic wave velocities, and dynamic elastic moduli. 13 19. Longwall Mining Design Parameters Objective ; Determine the critical design parameters for safe longwall min- ing systems by measuring the mining- induced load transfer, measuring the roof and floor strata movements, and determin- ing the roof and floor strata-bearing capacities. 20. Demonstration of a Single-Entry System for Longwall Mining Objective ; Develop and demon- strate a single-entry development system designed to reduce ground control hazards associated with retreat longwall mining. This project will provide a method for economic and safe extraction of deep coal resources. 21. Ground Control Design for Hard Rock Mines Objective ; Develop analytical de- sign procedures and criteria that will reduce the structural instability associ- ated with underground hardrock mining systems. The focus will be on the inter- acting influence of the floor, roof, and suppor structures and its impact on over- all mine stability. Primary emphasis will be on entry development and selec- tion of mining systems in evaporite deposits. 22. Evaluation of Ground Stability Problems in Quarry Operations Objective ; Identify ground control hazards in selected quarries and deter- mine the relation between quarrying- induced stresses, rock structures, and ground stability. 23. Pillar Destressing in Advance of Mining Objective ; Demonstrate how to destress rock-burst-prone stope areas in advance of production mining. Instrumen- tation installation in the test block on the 7900 level of the Star Mine, Idaho, will be monitored to assess a full- scale application of the destressing techniques. 24. Pre-Mine Planning To Reduce Ground Control Problems and Rock Burst Hazards Objective ; Improve ground control and minimize rock burst hazards in deep metal mines by utilizing advanced struc- tural analysis to design stope geometry and plan mining sequences. 25. Mechanical Properties Handbook and Data Base Objective ; Prepare a manual and mechanical property numerical data base for a wide range of rock types encoun- tered in metal and nonmetal mines. Data sets will include rock density, perme- ability, porosity, wave velocities, dy- namic elastic constants, uniaxial com- pressive and tensile strength, indirect tensile strength by Brazilian line-load method, shore hardness, and other properties. Hazard Detection and Monitoring Systems 26. Automatic Roof Fall Warning System Objective ; The immediate objective is to test the commercial prototype, microseismic roof fall warning system, modify it as necessary to achieve a high reliability, and transfer the technology to industry. The overall objective is to provide a reliable automatic device to warn of impending roof falls to assure that people are not in the area during failure. 27. Coal Mine Bounce and Outburst Studies Objective ; Show the applicability of microseismic techniques in locating bounce and/or outburst failure areas rel- ative to mine structures and predict- ing each failure. Work to date has shown these techniques effective, but 14 additional research is needed to deter- mine their reliability and define the ways and means in which industry may use them. 28. Validity of Existing Blasting Proximity Criteria and Scaling Laws Objective : Determine what consti- tutes damage to an underground mine open- ing and quantify the relationship between the magnitude of the measured parameter and the damage produced. Evaluate the parameters such as particle velocity, displacement, and strain, and determine which parameter will best indicate prob- able damage. Guidelines will be devel- oped for estimating safe operating distances between surface blasting oper- ations and underground coal mine openings. 29. Mine Roof Movement Warning System Objective ; Develop a simplified and cost-effective method using a laser beam to monitor the stability of the roof in main entries, passageways, belt lines, and escapeways. Demonstrate the tech- nique as a reliable, easily installed and maintained system. Make the system easily movable to new locations. 30. Application of In-Seam Seismic Techniques for Detection of Voids and Faults Objective ; Establish the uses and limitations of seismic seam wave tech- nology for the detection of voids and faults ahead of the working face in U.S. coal mines. Optimum field and interpre- tive procedures will be established for generating and detecting the desired mode of signal propagation. The resolution of the method under various conditions of coal seam geometry and with representa- tive target anomalies will be analyzed, and recommendations will be made for future implementation of the guided wave method as a tool for hazard detection from underground working faces. 31. Develop and Demonstrate Untrasonic Closure Rate and Roof Fall Prediction Device Objective ; Develop and field test an intrinsically safe, ultrasonic, roof- floor closure measuring device which is to be nonobstructing for use in haulage- ways and other high traffic areas for early prediction of roof falls. 32. Detection of Bad Roof by Resonance Objective : Develop a device for sensing bad roof and impending roof falls during mining based on the dynamic char- acteristics of coal measure rocks in the presence of geologic anomalies. This work will determine the dynamic charac- teristics and response of roof rocks to external excitation by small amplitude impulse and periodic excitation. The results will be used as indices of rock stability and applied to the design and construction of a device to predict the structural integrity of the mine roof and impending roof falls. 33. Coal Mine Hazard Detection by Acoustic Methods Objective ; Develop and test an acoustic monitoring system for detecting hazardous roof conditions in coal mines. The system will be based on available instrentation at the Bureau's Twin Cities Research Center. 34. Detection of Coal Mine Roof Fall Hazards Utilizing Electromagnetic Sensors Objective : Evaluate the state- of-the-art of low-frequency electromag- netics and ground penetrating radar sys- tems and develop suitable techniques to detect potential roof falls and other hazardous conditions in underground coal mines, from within the mine. 15 35. Field Test of Slope Stability Monitoring System Objective ; Evaluate, through field tests, the capability of the mlcroselsmlc slope stability monitoring system that has been developed by the Bureau to detect and to give advance warning of a pit wall failure. 36. Application of Rock Burst Technology and Failure Control Methods Objective ; Consolidate the state- of-the-art of rock burst detection sys- tems, their methods of use, data analysis and prediction techniques, and rock burst control methods Into a format to be transferred to Industry. This format will also allow for an up-to-date assess- ment of the need for future research. New data gathered during this fiscal year will also be Incorporated into the final format, with special emphasis on the cur- rent practice of destresslng for rock burst control and its effects on mine structure as a whole. 37. Prediction and Control of Rock Bursts and Failures in Mines Objective ; This project has three objectives: (1) to develop effective and reliable methods of predicting rock burst and controlling burst prone stopes; (2) to apply these methods to a mine with burst-prone stopes; and (3) to establish criteria and procedures basic to the problem of determining mine structure stability and how structural instabil- ities contribute to mine failures. Data obtained from the digital mlcroselsmlc system at the Galena Mine, Idaho, will be compared with the analog system currently employed at the mine, and an effort will be made to identify anomalous zones prior to bursts and to characterize mlcrosels- mlc activities from stressed and de- stressed zones. 38. Develop Fiber Optic Transmission System for Seismic Events Objective ; Improve the transmission of seismic data in electrically noisy mediums by eliminating all electrical connections between the transducer (seis- mometer) and the recording instrument and replacing it with fiber optic transmission. 39. Improved Rock Burst Monitoring Objective ; Improve rock burst moni- toring capabilities as a supportive research tool for delineating areas of high stress buildup and selecting mining methods and procedures that will minimize bursting. An improved monitoring system for rock burst studies in the Coeur d'Alene mining district will be acquired. Roof Support Systems 40. Inorganic Grout for Coal Mine Roofs Objective ; Develop practical sys- tems for installing fully grouted coal mine roof bolts with fast-set Inorganic cements. Material properties for the inorganic £ull-column roof bolt systems will be determined, and field tests will be conducted on the water microcapsule and gypsum cement cartridges in selected mines. 41. Effectiveness of Angle Bolting to Support Cutter-Type Roof Objective ; Provide the mining Industry with an effective method of sup- porting cutter-type (shear or snap top) roof using angle bolting. 42. Concrete Crib Design and Field Test and Technology Transfer Objective ; Complete the field dem- onstrations and evaluation of concrete cribs started in FY 80 and prepare a report on the entire project. Crib load and deflection instrumentation and the physical appearance of the cribs will be monitored and recorded as the longwall excavation proceeds past the demonstra- tion section. Load and deflection data will be compared with the results pre- dicted by the computer finite-element model prepared during FY 79. The 16 structural stability, performance, and economics of the concrete crib system will be analyzed and compared with those of the wood support system it replaces. 43. Inorganic Grout — Material Study Objective : Provide a fundamental analysis of hydrocal plaster, quantify chemical and mechanical properties of the hydrocal-water capsule reaction products, and examine the special qualities and problems of the hydrocal-water capsule system for grouting roof bolts. 44. Field Evaluation of Existing and Innovative Roof Bolt Elements Objective : Complete documentation of comparative bolt properties for inno- vative roof bolts so that these bolting systems can be evaluated by comparison to standard parameters previously estab- lished. Secondly, determine in situ per- formance of novel bolting systems through in-mine testing. 45. Polymeric Sealants To Stop Shale Degradation Objective : Conduct field evalua- tions and surveys using polymeric seal- ants to prevent shale degradation. A water-based polymeric sealant will be sprayed in two coal mines with followup patching and inspections. Polymeric sealants have been sprayed in two active mines in association with conr tract HO272008, "Weathering Protection at the Fact." These four mines will be inspected to evaluate effectiveness of the material used. 46. Effects of Bolt Installation Procedures on Mine Roof Stability Objective : Determine required resin-column length for insuring integ- rity of resin-grouted bolts, evaluate the E & MR ultrasonic stress device for test- ing resin-grouted bolts, and complete the evaluation of the effects of installation procedures on resin-grouted bolts. 47. Mine Roof Stabilization Using Inorganic Chemical Bonding Objective : Develop chemical binders and methods of application to mine roofs to increase the mine roof stability with special attention given to potential inorganic binders. 48. Evaluate Support Wall Systems Objective : Determine the stability characteristics of various pack wall ma- terials and pack systems in place. Stan- dardized tests required to establish materials characteristics will be deter- mined, test program guidelines will be tested to determine the overall perform- ance ranges of a pack, and procedures will be established by laboratory and in- mine trials to evaluate pack competence. Packwalls will be tested at Mid-Continent Resources, Inc. 's No. 1 and No. 3 Mines. Laboratory tests will be performed at the Bureau's Spokane Research Center to establish in situ testing capabilities. Both laboratory and field test of fill-in wood cribs will be conducted. 49. Mine Support Wall Material Test Objective : Determine optimum mine support wall materials formulated using coal and/or coal waste aggregates. 50. Steel Support Study Objective : Improve the design, han- dling, and installation of steel supports to insure that supports are used properly according to ground conditions and to reduce the accidents associated with handling by workers. 51. Coal Mine Roof Deflection Analysis Objective : Devise a method of using the deformation characteristics of a coal mine roof to establish the nature of the immediate roof and the type and amount of support required to insure safety for miners. 17 52. Cost-Effective Expendable Instrumentation Objective ; Develop a handbook on instrumentation that will provide guide- lines for the selection of the least expensive instrumentation capable of per- forming to collect the required data, and has the potential of reducing the cost of research instrumentation by 20 percent. 53. Inorganic Grouted Rock Bolts Objective ; Develop an inorganic grout system suitable for the large bolt holes commonly drilled in metal and non- metal mines. The initial task will be to identify reasons for poor anchorage of small-diameter bolts grouted in large- diameter holes. Pull tests will be made with different size rebar grouted in holes drilled in concrete blocks with a 1-3/8-inch drill (commonly used in metal and nonmetal mines). 54. Ground Support Systems — Block Cave Mining Objective ; Design, test, and imple- ment better methods of support for grizzly drifts and haulage crosscuts in block cave mining; and install, line, and backpack a haulage crosscut at the Sacaton unit of ASARCO, Inc. 55. Laboratory Test Program for Long Hole Bolting Objective ; Laboratory test the longhole bolting prototype (tube bolt) developed during FY 80-81. 56. Rock Bolting Prior To Blasting in Conventionally Driven Raises Objective ; Provide miners with temporary roof support while convention- ally driving raises. The procedure is to drill a hole 4 feet longer than the round and then install a 4-1/2-foot resin- grouted rock bolt. Following the blast, about 6 inches of the bolt remains exposed and a "head board" is added by to provide support above the miner's work place. Safe Support Installation 57. Determination of Decay in Mine Timber Objective ; Test the timber decay system developed under contract H0202009 to evaluate the effectiveness of the instrument to determine the strength loss of rotted timber. 58. Field Test of ATRS for Single Head Roof Drill Objective ; Provide the mining industry with complete information to enable fabrication of a tested automated temporary roof support (ATRS) for sin- gle, fixed-head roof drilling machines (squirmers). 59. Control-Prevention of Ignitions From Light Metals Impact Objective ; Determine the feasibil- ity of alloy modification and/or protec- tive coatings on mining equipment made of aluminum alloys to prevent or retard ignition potential. Determine the causes of ignition-inducing reaction arising from the rubbing impact of light metals and steels. 60. Underground Testing of the 4M Miner Objective ; Evaluate the health, safety, and production merits of the min- iminer system under normal production conditions. An underground demonstration of the miniminer system should begin in FY81 and continue through the early por- tion of FY 82. The data that will be collected will be primarily used to vali- date the information collected during the surface testing of the miniminer system. 61. Field Test and Modification of Lightweight Hydraulic Props Objective ; Complete long-term field testing of lightweight props and modify, if necessary, to improve the safety of handling and support functions in various seam heights and mining conditions. 18 S2. Computer Organization of Single-Entry Data Objective ; The raw data from the coal mine single entry study will be reduced, transformed, and published as a Report of Investigations. 63. Preparation of Longwall Support Selection Guide 67. Backfill Material for Tunnel Liners Objective : Test and write specifi- cations and recommendations for the use of backfill material (in conjunction with specific linear geometry) that is used to insulate tunnel liners from the impact loading of roof falls through the absorp- tion of energy and redistribution of loads. Objective ; Prepare for the mining Industry a guide for selecting the opti- mum longwall support system for a par- ticular set of mining conditions, 64. Retreat Mining Methods — Field Study Objective ; Identify changing ground conditions during various retreat mining operations and provide guidelines for uniform safety practices during retreat mining by FY 85. Instrumentation will be installed at two sites during development and retreat mining to monitor stress pat- terns and convergence during the various mining sequences. Observations and mine inquiries will be made along with instru- ment monitoring at the test sites to gain a better understanding of the ground conditions, method of operation, and haz- ards associated with retreat pillaring operations. 65. Technology Assessment-Forecasting for Ground Control Objective ; Examine Health ai\d Safety Analysis Center data on falls of roof-rib so that conclusions can be drawn relating conditions and circum- stances contributing to accidents and fatalities. 66. Equipment Evaluation Objective ; Develop mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical in-house exper- tise for in-house research and contract monitoring. Develop a laboratory and equipment base for further in-house work and proper contract monitoring. 68. Metallurgy Evaluations Objective ; In coordination with MSHA Technical Support, establish and maintain a program at the Bureau's Rolla Research Center for metallurgical evalua- tion of roof-rock bolts and other steel supports. 69. Corrosion of Metallic Roof Support Elements Objective ; Develop guidelines to aid MSHA and mining personnel in predict- ing the life of roof support systems, determine detrimental effects of corro- sive mine environments on friction rock stabilizers (split set) , and help iden- tify potential control measures. 70. Improved Roof Sounding Techniques Objective ; Develop a piece of hard- ware that can be easily used to determine the competency of roof rock in mines. This device may either be incorporated in a scaling bar or a stand-alone device. An initial prototype device is Intended by the end of FY 82. 71. Scaling Technology Objective : Develop a safer, more effective, and less strenuous means of scaling mine roof and ribs by testing, analyzing, and modifying, if necessary, scaling tools developed from previous contracts. & 19 Mining and Minerals Processing Waste Stability 72. Evaluation of Filter Cloth for Stabilization of Coal Mine Waste Objective : Provide safer, longer lasting dams of coal mine waste materials through the use of filter media to con- trol seepage. The immediate objective is to evaluate criteria for selection of filter cloth and test the filters under simulated mine waste dam environments. Also, evaluate the deterioration of the cloths by sunlight and chemicals used in coal preparation plants and investigate possible unidirectional flow in some fil- ter cloths. 73. Mixing Coarse-Fine Coal Wastes Objective : Determine the best mix- ing ratios of coarse and fine coal refuse to achieve the maximum fill strengths for surface disposal. Document disposal practices at selected coal preparation plants including coal preparation tech- niques versus mining techniques, waste product amount and sizes, strength char- acteristics of consolidated fine refuse, moisture contents of consolidated fine refuse, and transportation techniques for disposal of the refuse. 74. Disposal of Wastes Over Active Underground Mines Objective : Develop design and con- struction criteria for safe disposal of mine waste over active underground mines by evaluating geologic features, type of mining system used, extraction ratio, and pillar design. Peripheral conditions such as landslide potential, probable safety features such as placing of wastes to allow self plugging in the event of minor subsidence, and physical properties of the different types of mine waste will also be evaluated for their Impact on underground workings. 75. Use of Infrared Scanners To Detect Water Levels in Waste Embankments Objective : Test the use of infrared thermography on coal waste embankments to determine water levels within the embank- ment, and structural integrity. Seasonal changes in water levels will be tested using an infrared scanner. The results will be analyzed and compared with pie- zometer readings. 76. Ground-Aerial Inspection of Surface Coal Waste Disposal Sites Objective : Coordinate ground sur- veys to be performed under companion con- tract project inspection procedures and write the final report concentrating on the effectiveness of aerial photogram- metry as a practical tool for mine waste disposal site inspection. 77. Consolidation of Coal-Clay Waste by an Improved Flocculatlon Technique Objective : Demonstrate the techni- cal feasibility of using an improved flocculatlon technique to dewater waste coal sludge generated in coal preparation plants to produce a consolidated, stable waste material that can be safely dis- posed of. A field test unit will be operated at a cooperating coal prepara- tion plant at the rate of 300 to 500 gpm. The feasibility of mixing dewatered coal sludge with coarse coal refuse material for long-term stabilization of waste products will also be determined. 78. Field Test of Microseismic Monitoring of Waste Dams Objective : Apply the Information gained by a previous contract, which defined the basic characteristics of some parameters involved in microseismic moni- toring of waste dams under controlled conditions, to a field installation and actual monitoring conditions. 20 79. Analytic Techniques — Waste Disposal- Tailings Embankment Design Objective : Investigate and develop mathematical, statistical, and probabli- sltic techniques relative to tailings embankment design. Focal areas for FY 82 include factor of safety risk analysis and centrifuge modeling. When appropri- ate, perform field studies to verify the- oretical assumptions. 80. Compaction Criteria for Metal- Nonmetal Waste Objective ; Determine the compaction characteristics of metal-nonmetal tail- ings. Optimum layer thickness, den- sities, and compactive effort will be developed on an operating waste embankment . Industrial-Type Hazards Program Objectives ; To (1) limit the possibility of htmian error through training, and human-machine and human- environment interfacing; (2) Improve equipment design and controls; (3) detect and prevent failures of electric cir- cuitry and hardware; (4) provide adequate lighting in working areas; (5) Insure continuous and reliable communication between all underground and surface mine personnel, while providing continuous surveillance of the mine environment; and (6) improve safety in haulage and materials-handling operations. Human Factors 1. Human Factors and Industrial Safety (Education and Training) Objective ; In-house efforts in FY 82 will serve to coordinate a diverse mixture of current research projects according to well-defined short- and long-term research objectives. These objectives include development of per- formance criteria, instructional strat- egies, and evaluational methods for mine health, safety, and occupational training; application of current learning technology to investigate the potential of utilizing training equipment to en- hance and economize classroom and on- the-job training. 2. Human Factors and Industrial Safety (Ergonomics) Objective ; When mining accidents are thoroughly Investigated, it is often found that "human error" or management oversight is the primary contributing factor. Some mining authorities maintain that perhaps 80 percent of all accidents and injuries are the results of human error. This explanation alone offers little opportunity for application of appropriate countermeasures. If human error type accidents are to be signifi- cantly reduced, the work environment, Including machines, must be designed in a manner that permits the fewest possible errors to occur. Secondary to appropri- ate workplace design is adequate training of miners and management. This in-house effort Involves tasks which are oriented toward either solving specific hviman fac- tor problems in the mining Industry or supporting a broad range of efforts directed toward reducing mining accident and injuries associated with human error. 3. Surface Mine Training Objective ; Develop information and strategies to aid mining companies in administering and monitoring their ef- forts to improve safety training effec- tiveness in mining and mineral processing operations. 4. Feasibility Study on the Use of Visual Skills Training in Hazard Recognition for Underground Mines Objective ; To investigate the po- tential for training new miners utilizing various simulation techniques to develop visual search and discrimination skills for recognizing dangerous and safe roof and rib connections. 21 5. Computerized Index of Available Training Material Objective : To develop a computer- ized index of training material and aids available from the Bureau of Mines, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), MSHA, State and local agencies, companies, uions, safety trade associations, and academic institutions. The index will be made readily accessible through terminals at MSHA training centers and other locations. Electrical 6. Intrinsic Safety Objective ; To investigate research problems related to a basic understanding of intrinsic safety, supply technical support to Bureau contractors and re- searchers and to work with national and international committees in developing recommendations and standards for using electrical equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres; and to improve the quality of Bureau equipment and personnel training. 7. Acceptance Criteria for Nonejectable Cap Lamp Bulb Objective ; To develop an acceptance guideline (including test methodology and failure criteria) for nonejectable cap lamps. tasks in the field of mine electrical systems and devices, and to pursue in- house basic research for the general improvement of metal and nonmetal mine electrical safety. 10. Handbook for Electrical Grounding Safety for Small Pits and Quarries Objective ; Produce a handbook for field use, "A Practical Field Guide for Metal and Nonmetal Mining Electrical Grounding Safety for Small Pits and Quarries." Equipment 11. Development of Technology To Reduce Equipment-Related Accidents Objective : To define future equipment-related research needs and to advance the level of health and safety technology in a variety of equipment areas that have already been identified as accident problems. This objective will be achieved by conducting a cohesive research program balanced between the optimization of current mining equipment design for improved safety in the short- term and the identification and develop- ment of innovative underground mining technology that will eventually eliminate the presence of miners in the hazardous face area. 12. Surface Mine Equipment Safety 8. Explosion-proof Enclosures Objective ; (1) To determine minimum safe electrical clearances between unin- sulated live conductors used in explosion-proof enclosures for voltages greater than 2,000 volts. (2) To inves- tigate the mechanisms by which high-power arcs affect internal pressures in potted explosion-proof enclosures. 9. Electrical Equipment, Devices, and Systems Objective ; To conduct preliminary investigation and final evaluations rela- tive to contracted research and design Objective ; Develop and in-mine test mine vehicle safety hardware in the areas of operator ingress-egress systems, driver alertness, and vehicle retrieval. 13. Participation on the Society of Automative Engineer Technical Committee on Mining Equipment (SAE Subcommittee 29) Objective ; Develop standards that cover requirements for safeguarding life and property on underground and surface coal, metal, and nonmetal mining equipment. 22 14. Operator Protection for Surface Mining Equipment Objective ; To test operator accep- tance of improved seat belt systems for mobile surface mining equipment, and to develop novel methods of operator protec- tion. Also, evaluate the state-of-the art of fire-resistant fluids' performance and equipment compatibility in coal min- ing equipment through Industry contacts. 15. Processing Plant Equipment Safety Objective : To investigate the application of safety technology to re- duce equipment hazards at processing plants. 16. Assessment of the Role of Mining Equipment Rebuild Shops in the Bureau of Mines Technology Objective : To study, evaluate, and optimize the role of equipment rebuild shops in transferring the results of Bureau research into industry practice. The initial pilot effort, to be accom- plished this year, will culminate with the preparation of a directory of under- ground coal mining equipment rebuild shops located in Pennsylvania that iden- tifies the range of services and capa- bilities available. considerable reduction in airborne dust loads from conventional mining can be achieved with this method of kerf cut- ting. By reconditioning this machine, an evaluation of its safety and functional operating characteristics can be made at the surface test facility using artifi- cial coal blocks. 18. Characterization of Material Failures in ROPS Objective : Define and characterize the service life of rollover protective structures (ROPS) on large surface mining equipment. 19. Machinery Maintenance Related Accidents Objective : Based on an investiga- tion of machinery maintenance related accidents, develop concepts for Improved maintenance tools and procedures. 20. Collision Protection Objective : Develop, laboratory test, and In-mine on-vehlcle test proto- type hardware that reduces the vehicle collision hazards in surface mines. Work will involve low profile, fresnel lens, blind area viewers, improved truck mir- rors, and close-in hazard detection devices. 17, Modification and Demonstration of an Improved Circular Kerf Cutting Machine Illumination 21. Illumination Research Objective : To improve and demon- strate the potential benefits of a novel kerf cutting machine that had been devel- oped under a previous Bureau project. This machine bores a large round hole in the center of the coal face in conven- tional mines. The explosive charges cause the coal to expand and fracture inward instead of downward, thus causing a completely different dust and lumping characteristic. The machine had been built, but was never fully debugged and demonstrated. It is believed that a Objective ; (1) Evaluate specialized power supplies and lighting hardware for diesel-powered surface mining machinery. (2) Maintain and update the machine- mounted permissible illumination systems in use in the Bruceton Experimental Coal Mine. (3) Investigate the illumination of surface mining equipment. (4) Inves- tigate the feasibility of flexible light- ing systems that are radio frequency excited. (5) Provide technical assis- tance to MSHA and the mining industry. 23 Communication-Monitoring 22. Performance Standards and Systems Approach to Mine Monitoring Objective ; To conduct preliminary Investigations, maintain a base of knowl- edge, and provide support for the mine monitoring program. Individual problems in the area of mine monitoring will be investigated by in-house expertise, par- ticularly those discovered through con- tact with MSHA personnel and those that become evident as newly developed moni- toring systems are field tested. Areas of study are systems performance evalu- ation, developing performance standards, and security of data transmission. 23. Underground Communication Systems Objective ; To continue basic and applied research in the areas of hardwire and wireless radio systems for under- ground mines. 24. Mine Telemetry and Environmental Surveillance System-Coal Objective ; To design, procure, lab- oratory test, and in-mine evaluate mine monitoring systems in candidate coal mines; and to develop an intrinsically safe monitoring system specifically to support in-mine demonstration project currently ongoing. 25. Mine Telemetry and Environmental Surveillance System — Metal-Nonmetal Mines Objective ; To support mine monitor- ing systems that are Installed in candi- date metal-nonmetal mines. Specifically to evaluate, maintain, and Improve as necessary by the mine monitoring system Installed in the Black River Mine. Haulage Material Handling 26. Materials Handling Equipment Development can be made safer and less labor inten- sive. Project areas Include the handling of supplies and machine components and emergency braking devices for tracked vehicles on slopes. In addition, there is an ongoing effort involving statisti- cal analysis of accident data in support of contractual efforts in this area. 27. Operation of the Wire Rope Test Facility Objective ; To define the character- istics of wire rope and its uses that affect the life of mine hoist and haulage rope. To perform detailed analyses and testing of new and retired ropes and monitor field use. To relate the results to manufacturing procedures, rope con- struction, or in-service procedures to improve the performance and safety of wire rope used in mining. 28. Laboratory Analysis of Wire Rope Objective ; To define physical and chemical characteristics of wire rope that affect rope degradation in mine hoisting, and to define mechanisms of hoist rope deterioration that result in rope removal from service. Data will be assembled and used to determine the most important modes of degradation, and the ability of current inspection techniques to detect both the degradation and to evaluate the remaining rope strength and fatigue life. The information will be used to recommend improvements to the regulations and to plan future research. 29. Pneumatic Transport Safety Designs Objective ; To assess the safety liabilities and assets of pneumatically transporting coal both horizontally and vertically, to compare these results with the safety of conventional methods of underground coal haulage such as shuttle cars and skip haulage, and to report the results in both an Information Circular and industry publications. Objective ; Investigate methods by which mine materials handling activities 24 30. Conveyor Safety Objective : To support development of a conveyor safety program by conduct- ing background investigations of poten- tial research areas and promoting tech- nology transfer of completed projects by preparing journal articles, Information Circulars, making presentations at industry conferences, etc. 31. Analysis of Materials Handling Accidents in Underground Mining Objective ; To collect and analyze available data on materials handling accidents. This program will be based upon accident data obtained from MSHA, industry, and foreign files; risk mea- surements of the data; discussions with coal operators and workers, safety asso- ciations, MSHA personnel, mining and safety equipment manufacturer; and stud- ies of actual materials handling opera- tions in the field. of a mine disaster to escape from the mine or to continue to survive while awaiting rescue by providing protection against toxic and/or oxygen-deficient atmospheres; (2) aid in the location of miners trapped underground, using seismic and electromagnetic means of communica- tion; and (3) facilitate postdlsaster rescue and recovery operations through surface monitoring of conditions under- ground, emergency communications, and mechanized transport and life-support equipment for mine reentry and rescue operations. Survival 1. Human, Machine, and Environmental Tests of Breathing Apparatus Objective ; To Improve breathing apparatus by testing prototype and com- mercial breathing apparatus and reporting results and recommendations of evalua- tions to manufacturers. 32. Analysis of Equipment, Haulage, and Material Handling Accidents in the Mining Industry Objective ; In cooperation with the Bureau's Spokane and Pittsburgh Research Centers, investigate the causes of equip- ment, haulage, and materials handling related accidents to provide a sound foundation on which to base a cohesive, coordinated Industrial hazard safety research program. 33. Operational and Maintenance Safety Analysis of Large Mine-Run Rock Conveyor 2. Advanced First Aid, Health, and Fitness Studies Objective ; To conduct studies in the needs and application of advanced first aid, health, and fitness topics to improve life support and survival of miners. 3. Advanced Breathing Apparatus Design Objective ; To study needs and per- form research and development of novel breathing apparatus designs and compon- ents, and effect or stimulate long-term improvement in apparatus design. Objective ; To evaluate the safety of the large rock conveyor system, both operational and maintenance safety; out- line areas of design and operational changes to promote maximum safety; and determine areas where additional research is needed. Postdlsaster Program Objectives ; To develop technology that will (1) enable survivors Communications 4. Trapped Miner Location and Communication Objective ; To develop emergency detection and location systems for post- disaster rescue efforts, evaluate hard- ware for these rescue efforts, and pro- vide technical assistance to contractors conducting field test programs. 25 5. Short Range Locator Objective ; To develop and demon- strate a system to quickly and accurately locate trapped miners underground to enhance their chances of survival in postmining disasters. 6. Development of Trapped Miner Location System Using Phase Difference of Arrival Techniques Objective ; Determine the feasibil- ity of using "phase difference of arrival concepts" (PDOAC) to develop an elec- tronic system for locating trapped miners. Rescue and Mine Recovery 7. Improved Rescue Technology and Personal Protective Equipment for Mine Rescue Objective ; To study the needs of the mining industry and propose applica- tions of new or existing rescue tech- nology to meet those needs and to stimu- late research and development of personal protection equipment for mine rescue. Explosives Program Objectives ; To assess the problems associated with the safe and effective use of explosives in all types of mining activity including fixed explo- sives, blasting agents, blasting devices, and blasting accessories. To conduct fundamental studies of explosive behavior and apply the results in the development of new technology. To develop new and improved test procedures as new types of explosives are formulated. Explosives and Blasting 1. Development of Guidelines and Supporting Tests for Standards and Enforcement Objective ; (1) To provide support- ing research for accident investigations and on potentially hazardous situations or products, or practices identified by MSHA, (2) to recommend guidelines based on research for the development-revision or enforcement of safety standards in the areas identified. 2. Determination of Permissibility Requirements for Blasting in Noncoal Mines Objective ; To develop information based on experiments to be used for the development of guidelines and standards for nonincendive explosives and blasting agents and permissible blasting practices in oil, oil shale, and other noncoal mines having a potential gas or dust explosion hazard. 3. Methods of Reducing Accidents Caused by Misfires Objective ; To examine factors associated with accidents caused by mis- fires. These factors would include causes of misfires, methods of detection, and techniques for disposing of misfires. Recommendations will be made for prevent- ing misfire accidents. 4. Development of Improved Blasting Machine Tester Objective ; To develop a blasting machine tester that. In addition to the capabilities of currently available testers, can detect energy losses through parallel resistance faults, stray poten- tials on the blasting machine case, and determine the adequacy of the energy out- put relative to the energy requirements of the blasting circuit. When the nvmiber of detonators per series, the number of series in parallel, the energy require- ment per detonator, with compensation for lead resistance are "dialed in," the tester will determine whether the blast- ing machine can reliably fire the partic- ular circuit. 5. Hazards of Explosives and Explosive Devices Objective ; To provide MSHA and the mining industry with information, guide- lines, and/or recommendations in the area 26 of sensitivity, reactivity, energy release, and reliability of blasting materials subjected to various normal or abnormal mechanical, electrical, and thermal stimuli, as well as evaluations of blasting accessories in connection with MSHA accident investigations or development and/or revision of safety relative to these materials and their use. Development and/or updating of tests and procedures is also an important part of the objective. 6. Permissible Explosives — ^Evaluation and Research 9. Development of New Schedule Tests and Standards Objective ; Update current and develop new schedules and standards as needs arise for permissible explosives and related articles, recommend changes to MSHA for the purpose of providing safer and more effective explosives and devices, extend basic knowledge by inves- tigating mechanisms involved in and associated with incendivity and perfor- mance of explosives, including the United Kingdom and West German ultrasafe explosives. Objective : Continue evaluating ex- plosives and explosive devices for under- ground coal mine use, as required by law, monitor of field samples for conformance with their basic specifications, perform the necessary research to improve the safety and performance of coal mine explosives, including water gel and water emulsion permissibles, examine all explo- sives reportedly involved in accidents or incidents, and report findings to MSHA. 7. Fire Hazards of Explosives and Blasting Agents Objective : To complete all develop- ment, optimization of parameters, and gathering of supporting data in connec- tion with Bureau efforts to develop laboratory-scale size thermal tests designed for use in making assessments for minimizing fire hazards of explosive's and blasting agents in storage or transit at mine sites. 8. Improvement of Nonincendive Explosive Charge for Unconfined Shooting Objective : To reduce the weight and profile of the nonincendive charge pre- viously developed, research the effects of the shape and packaging of the explo- sive charge on rock-breaking efficiency, improve understanding of the mechanism by which the flame inhibiting material operates. 10. Basic Research on Initiation and Propagation of Detonation Objective : To formulate explosive criteria that reflects the interrela- tionship of explosive characteristics, explosive states, stimulation mechanisms, and reaction modes of mining explosives which are characterized as water-gels or gelatinous. 11. Analysis of Coal Mining Blasting Accidents Objective : This project will ana- lyze coal mine blasting accidents to insure that the Bureau research effort is directed toward the real causes of blast- ing accidents and includes a minor effort devoted to analysis of metal and nonmetal mine accidents. Systems Engineering Program Objectives : To develop methods for evaluating the impact of specific technological improvements or inadequacies on the total mining and min- erals processing operations and identi- fying problems whose solutions would pro- vide the greatest health and safety benefit. To operate and maintain under- ground research and test facilities for use in testing and demonstrating new pro- cedures and equipment before they are tested in commercial mines. r Syst Systems Analysis 1. Hazard Analysis of Underground Mining — Methane, Roof Falls, and Fires Objective ; Develop recommendations for new technology or modifications of current technology to reduce the roof fall hazard to personnel making methane measurements at the coal face. Identify and analyze major fire problem areas in gassy noncoal mines. Quantify equipment operational parameters in surface and underground mines and specify component performance requirements to assure reli- able operation of safety systems. 2. Application of Mine Safety Hardware Objective ; Identify significant applications of mine safety hardware developments. Determine the cost- effectiveness of specific mine safety hardware developments. Demonstrate the effectiveness of safety devices through in-mine tests. 3. Information Retrieval System for Costs of Mine Accidents and Application Objective ; The ultimate goal is to provide information to management and researchers for making decisions. The objectives of this proposal are to (1) convert the 1979 and 1980 Health and Safety Analysis Center (HSAC) accident statistics into cost statistics; (2) identify these data; (3) simplify run procedures on 1979 and 1980 HSAC accident statistics so any interested person may conduct the online retrieval and analy- sis; (4) conduct correlation statistics among various accident statistic and mine characteristics, that is seam height; (5) identify useful information that can be obtained from the data and methodologies apply the technique to real situations. 27 and extract information from the mine accident data bases by applying the lat- est statistical techniques designed for categorical data (a characteristic of some of the mine accident data) . 4. Statistical Accident Analysis and Literature Search Objective ; The objectives are to formulate a method for measuring risk (safety) of mining operations; to derive risk values using HSAC accident data and foreign data; to use these risk values to rank the hazards of different mining activities; and, through literature searches, to summarize past research, identify past and current trends, and aid in planning future research projects. 5. Analysis of Mining Systems Objective ; To examine, select, process, and package pertinent research results related to coal mine health and safety involving methane control and method for prediction of roof instabili- ties to effectively integrate them into the total mining system. To identify technology gaps in research. Test Facilities 6. Operation of Underground Test Facilities Objective ; The objective is to operate the two experimental mine facili- ties located at Bruceton for the purpose of supporting ongoing research and devel- opment projects. Examples of project activities scheduled for work in the mine facilities include construction and test- ing of explosion-proof bulkheads, trickle duster testing in return air courses, coal and oil shale fire tests, reduction of respirable dust generation by coal cutting equipment, and ground control instrumentation tests. 28 7. Operation of Lake Lynn Laboratory Objective : To operate the Lake Lynn Laboratory in support of ongoing Bureau of Mines programs. Examples of programs to be pursued Include testing new types of explosion barriers or ignition-suppression devices, diagnosis and abatement of methane roof layers, minimum initiation conditions for dust explosion, and explosion and hydrostatic testing of candidate explosion-proof bulkheads and water seals. PART 1 1. —CONTRACT RESEARCH Health Respirable Dust Program Objectives : To develop pro- cedures for controlling the respirable mine dusts that still constitute the severest health problem facing the mining and minerals processing industries. To develop and/or improve techniques and equipment to prevent formation of hazard- ous dust concentrations and to protect miners against dusty atmospheres. Control of Dust Formation 1. Instrumented In-Mine Testing of the Bureau of Mines Low-RPM, Deep-Cutting Continuous-Mining Machine 3. In-Seam Tester for Underground Coal Mines Objective : To develop and demon- strate a portable, quick, in-seam tester for determining drum-bit forces required to excavate coal from the face of an underground coal mine heading and to establish correlation of cutting forces between an instrumented miner and the in- seam tester. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Control of Generated Dust 4. Evaluate Longwall Dust Sources and Control Technology Objective ; To determine specific forces and their magnitude encountered during mining of coal with an instru- mented, deep-cutting, continuous-mining machine. This information shall be made available to the mining equipment indus- try to design and construct production versions of the low-rpm, deep-cutting continuous-mining machine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Effects of Continuous-Mining Machine Operator Variables on Dust Generation During Coal Cutting Objective : To define operator vari- ables and determine the effect of con- trollable operator variables on primary dust generation during coal cutting with continuous-mining machines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Objective : To define and quantify the relative contribution to the overall dust exposure of each of the major dust- producing elements and processes asso- ciated with longwall mining. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 5. Conveyor Belt Dust Control Objective : To reduce the occurrence of respirable dust at conveyor belt load- ing, dumping, and transfer points by cost-effective dust control systems. The effort shall consist of data collection and analysis, design and fabrication of a dust control system, laboratory evalu- ation, and in-mine testing and demon- stration. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 29 6 . Imp roved Canopy Air Curtain 10. Evaluation of Charged Water Sprays Objective ; To develop an Improved canopy air curtain system for mining use, and to Investigate the feasibility and develop a method and hardware that will remove gaseous contaminants In addition to particulates from the mine air that will be delivered by the canopy air cur- tain. Specifically, to Investigate the feasibility and design of an alr- purlflcatlon module for use on canopy air curtains used on dlesellzed equipment In underground mines. This Is a continua- tion of an ongoing effort. 7. Mine Demonstrations of Longwall Dust Control Techniques Objective ; To evaluate the effec- tiveness of available dust control tech- nology for double-driam shearer longwall sections In a coordinated, systematic program at several longwall test sec- tions, and to make the results available to the entire coal mining Industry. These demonstrations should guide the coal mining Industry toward the best available technology to control resplr- able dust with the least adverse Impact on coal production. This Is a continua- tion of an ongoing effort. 8. Optimizing Water Sprays for Dust Control on Longwall Shearer Faces Objective ; To determine and verify the feasibility of using electrically charged water sprays and mists for the control of resplrable dust In underground nongassy mines. This Is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 11. Design, Develop, and Demonstrate the Use of Hollow and Wet Cutter Bars Objective ; To design, develop, and demonstrate a hollow cutter bar used In conjunction with a machine-mounted dust collection system, and to assess the cur- rent effectiveness and optimization of wet bar dust control techniques. This Is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 12. Bag Machine Dust Controls and Bag Sealing Objective ; To design and demon- strate an effective bagging machine modi- fication to reduce the liberation of dust as the bag fills and leaves the machine. To further alleviate the dust problem, a positive bag seal Is also to be designed and demonstrated. Special emphasis Is planned on controlling dust in silica flour mills. This Is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 13. Dry Dust Collector Objective ; To test and evaluate water spray systems on longwall faces. To compare an optimized water-spray sys- tem with a conventional system formerly in use at a full-scale model longwall face. The optimized system shall be tested in at least five mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 9. Shearer-Mounted Dust Collector Objective ; To continue to evaluate the effectiveness of water-powered spot scrubbers for use on lonwall mining oper- ations. To optimize its performance and location and conduct underground tests of the Improved spot scrubber design. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Objective ; To design, fabricate, and demonstrate a small, safe, simple, and rugged dry collector that would be suitable for face (Including machine mounting), belt transfer, and other min- ing applications. Evaluate the collector at several mining and mineral processing operations to include a silica mineral processing mill and Incorporate any design changes to enhance the performance and application of the collector. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 14. Bag Cleaning and Broken Bag Disposal Objective ; To develop techniques and equipment to (1) remove or control dust on the exterior of filled bags; 30 (2) compress bags to remove internally trapped air; and (3) detect and dispose of broken bags on conveyor circuit at silica processing mill operations. This is a new RFP. Control of Radiation Hazards 1. Design, Build, and Test an Air- Cleaning System for Working Level Control in Uranium Mines Dust Instrumentation and Measurement 15. Field Prototype Light-Scattering, Machine-Mounted Respirable Dust Monitor Objective : To develop, fabricate, and test a reliable device that can be mounted in the vicinity of a mining- machine operator that will give the oper- ator a visual signal of the immediate environmental dust level. This is a con- tinuation of an ongoing effort. 16. Personal Dust Exposure Monitor — Light Scattering Objective ; To develop a reliable, sufficiently accurate personal exposure monitor for respirable coal mine dusts. The device shall provide the wearer with a warning when corrective actions are necessary. It shall be of suitable size, weight, and accuracy so that it can replace the personal dust sampler. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 17. Respirable Dust Measurement Research, Development, and Evaluation Objective ; To conduct a laboratory evaluation of selected dust measurement instruments, both prototype and those commercially available, to determine pre- cision and accuracy for representative mine aerosols, and to develop calibration procedures for each instrument. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Radiation Hazards Program Objective s; To develop and provide new and improved radiation instrumentation, measurement, and control technology for protection of miners from exposure to radon and radon daughters and other nuclear radiation hazards in ura- nium and other mines. Objective ; To design, build, and test a combined fan and air-cleaning unit for working level control and suitable for ventilating a small work place in a uranium mine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Cost Survey for Radon Daughter Control by Ventilation and Other Control Techniques Objective ; To determine the effec- tiveness and costs of using dilution con- trol and other methods to meet the exist- ing 4WLM annual exposure standard, and to project the costs and effectiveness of all those control methods in meeting annual exposure standards of 2.0, 1.0, and 0.5 WLM as well as radon-radon daugh- ter mine discharge quantities. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Radiation Instrumentation and Measurement 3. Passive Nuclear Track Dosimeter Objective ; To continue modifica- tions of existing dosimeter design to reflect improvements suggested by in-mine tests. To investigate new designs and concepts to reduce maintenance and con- tamination of external detector in active mine environments. To conduct verifica- tion testing in the laboratory and in the Twilight Mine and active mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Noise Control Program Objectives ; To identify noise sources in underground and surface mines and in related mineral processing surface facilities, to abate these noise sources through both field retrofit and factory redesign approaches so that the mining operations and minerals processing activities meet the Federal noise expo- sure standards, to provide more accurate measurement of the noise environment, and 31 to provide industry with the technical knowledge necessary to select, design, and implement noise control measures. 1, Noise Study of Longwall Mining Systems Objective ; To develop quieter long- wall mining equipment. The noise prob- lems of longwall systems shall be identi- fied, and feasible engineering controls that achieve quieter operation without affecting production shall be assessed and demonstrated. It is anticipated that the demonstration phase will involve a cooperative effort with a longwall equip- ment manufacturer. The identification and assessment phases were completed in FY 81. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Current Levels of Whole-Body Vibrations in Mines implemented and comparing the cost effec- tiveness of these controls with admini- strative controls. This is a continua- tion of an ongoing effort. 4. Retrofit of Underground Load-Haul- Dump Machines With Noise Control Packages Objective ; To develop retrofit noise control technology for specific models of load-haul-dump (LHD) machines. Noise control techniques shall be imple- mented and in-mine tested. Participation of the contractor with equipment manufac- turers and mine operators is considered essential in conducting this contract. This contract is a continuation of ongoing efforts to quiet LHD's through retrofit means. 5. Noise Control of Rubber-Tired Front End Loader Used in Surface Mines Objective ; To determine and assess the present levels of mine personnel exposure to whole-body vibrations and to compare these levels with the results of a medical literature search relating vibration parameters to physiological effects. This study represents the ini- tial background effort in the possible establishment of a program in this area. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Abatement of Taconite Plant Noise Sources Objective ; To develop and demon- strate practical engineering noise con- trols for equipment used in taconite plants. Prior work in this area deter- mined the noise sources in taconite plants and concentrated on secondary crushers. This effort shall be aimed at quieting screens, rodmills, autogenous and semiautogenous mills, pneumatic rap- pers, and vacuum disk filters. Solutions developed were implemented in selected plants and evaluated to assess acoustic effectiveness, durability, and costs. A report will be published detailing the engineering controls that were Objective ; To provide a series of workshops intended to assist mining per- sonnel in selection, fabricating, and installing retrofit noise control treat- ments on front end loaders. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 6. Development of a Prototype Hand-Held Rock Drill for Use in Metal and Nonmetal Mines Objective ; To develop a reduced- noise hard rock drill for use in the metal and nonmetal mining industry. The basic technology that was successful in the development of a quieter coal mine pneumatic stoper drill shall be applied. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 7. Predicting Nonmetallic Screen Deck Performance Objective ; To conduct an extensive screen deck testing program to develop performance information and a computer model for the screening perfonnance of nonmetallic decks. This is a continua- tion of an ongoing effort. 32 8. Environmental Testing of Personal Audio Dosimeter Objective : To environmentally test the reliability and overall performance of commercially available personal audio dosimeters. Commercially available do- simeters will be environmentally tested under various conditions of temperature, humidity, etc. , to determine their dura- bility and reliability in a mining envir- onment. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. The intent of this project is to take an integrated approach to noise controlling a continuous miner. Noise control tech- nology that will be developed for the cutting head will be incorporated with previously developed chain conveyor con- trols and other noise controls into a test bed piece of equipment. The tech- nology will be validated by underground testing. 12. Development of Prototype Production Noise Controlled Jumbo Drills 9. Assessment of the Accuracy of Measurement of Dose by Various Instruments in Differing Noise Environments Found in Mining Objective ; To assess the accuracy with which dosimeters, sound level met- ers, and other devices measure dose under conditions of continuous, fluctuating, intermittent, impulse, and impact noise exposures similar to those found in the mining industry. Information gained in this study will provide a basis for com- paring the various methods of dose mea- surement and point out limitiations and other factors to consider when using a particular instrument under various noise conditions found in the mining industry. This is a new RFP. 10. Noise Control Guidelines for the Coal Mining Industry — Handbook Objective ; To develop a cost- effective, manufacturable, quiet jumbo- mounted drill through redesign. A pre- production prototype jumbo drill is to be designed, fabricated, and field tested. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Industrial Hygiene (Toxic Substances) Program Objectives ; To identify and control health hazards in surface and underground mines and mineral processing plants caused by toxic and/or noxious gases and fumes, and certain particulates produced by explosives, combustible materials, and diesel engines. To devel- op and evaluate new instrumentation, methods , and procedures for monitoring these substances. To analyze alternative power sources that may have health advantages over existing mine diesels. Objective ; To develop a noise con- trol handbook for the coal mining indus- try. A handbook is being developed that will provide the mining industry with noise control guidelines for mining machines as well as the information nec- essary for selection, design, and imple- mentation of appropriate control tech- niques. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 11. Integrated Approach to Noise Control for a Continuous Miner Objective ; To develop and field test a noise controlled continuous miner. Toxic Gases and Materials 1. Determination of the Products of the Oxidative Thermal Degradation of Mine Materials Objective ; To determine the iden- tity and quantity of gas, fume, and smoke products generated during the stages of oxidative heating of materials used in mining. Preignition heating, pyrolysis devolatilization, flaming and glowing combustion, and extinguishment are being investigated. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 33 2. Toxic Fumes From Explosives Tests in Underground Mines Objective ; To determine the pres- ence of trace toxic products such as nitrosamines and others that may be pres- ent along with the expected products CO, CO2 , NOj( , SO2 , and NH3 in the fumes from explosives fired at the working face in a mine. Results will be used to character- ize the transient nature of fumes gener- ated during blasting, and to compare these in-mine results with results obtained by laboratory test methods. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Monitoring of Mine Air Pollutants Objective ; To develop and test engineering approaches for the control of mine air quality. To characterize exhaust gas distributions in various ven- tilation configurations in deadend drifts. To evaluate exhaust control hardware in simulated and real condi- tions. To investigate methods to iden- tify diesel soot on respirable dust fil- ters. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort which involves participa- tion of a cooperating mine. 4. Technique for Determining Efficiency of Sorbents in Diffusion-Type Samplers Objective ; To investigate the feas- ibility for determining both the effi- ciency and capacity of diffusion type passive samplers for contaminant gases, and to apply techniques developed to assess mine air quality when diesel- powered equipment is being used. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Diesels 5. Control of Diesel Exhaust In Mines — After treatments Objective ; To develop and field test an exhaust emission control system for diesel-engine-powered equipment suitable for underground mining applica- tions. Combinations of emission control methods including exhaust gas recircula- tion, catalytic converters, particulate filters, and water-fuel emulsif ication will be investigated to determine the optimum combination for mining vehicles. The final combination will be field tested. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 6. Control of Diesel Exhaust In Mines — Fuel Modifications Objective ; To investigate the con- trol of diesel exhaust emissions by fuel modifications that can be made at the mine site. Specifically, water-fuel emulsif ications will be evaluated and optimization of the engine operating parameters to combust these fuels will be performed. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 7. Relationship of Underground Diesel Engine Maintenance to Emissions Objective ; To establish mine main- tenance and equipment use patterns and relate them to rates of engine deteriora- tion and emission levels. In-service diesel units shall be assessed with laboratory-quality emissions and diagnos- tic instrumentation. Fuel, coolant, and lubricating oil will be analyzed for con- tamination. Catalytic reactors shall be evaluated for conversion efficiencies. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 8. Development of a Clean Internal Combustion Engine for Underground Mining Machinery Objective ; To evaluate a diesel- metal hydride power source (a diesel engine modified to burn hydrogen) for use in underground mining equipment from the standpoint of mine safety, technical feasibility, industry acceptance, and economics. Hydrogen fuel will be stored in a metal-hydride lattice. To design a program leading to construction of a 34 prototype and subsequent demonstration of such a vehicle should it be warranted. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Ventilation Program Objective ; To develop ven- tilation systems required to maintain a safe and healthful atmosphere conducive to efficient work output in noncoal mines. 1. Rigid Foams for Constructing and Repairing Mine Stoppings Objective : To investigate rigid foams, including urethanes, for con- structing and repairing mine stoppings. Chosen foams will be evaluated based on their ability to adhere to material found in mines, to form an effective air bar- rier, and to present no flame or toxic hazard. Final foams chosen will be in- mine tested. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Testing Jet Fans in Mines With Large Cross-Sectional Airways Objective : To develop guidelines for the proper placement of jet or sec- ondary fans in underground drifts to assure effective ventilation airflow. Ventilation airflow patterns will be assessed under actual in-mine conditions by use of a tracer gas. Different fan placements will be evaluated under vary- ing ventilation conditions in mines with cross-sectional areas up to 20 by 50 feet. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Optimization and Testing of Water- Spray Coolers Objective : To optimize the pres- ently available 5,000-cfm water-spray cooler to assess its potential for larger cooling capacity operation. To investigate new and improved direct- contact, air-water heat exchangers for cooling the hot working areas of deep mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 4. Water Turbine Energy Recovery System Objective : To design, develop, and test a fluid motor system that takes energy from the high-pressure water flow- ing in vertical pipelines in deep hot mines and converts this energy into use- ful mechanical or electrical energy. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Safety Fire and Explosion Prevention Program Objectives : To reduce the potential for fire or explosion in min- eral extraction and processing opera- tions; to minimize the danger to people on account of fires or explosions that do occur. Prevention Research 1. Surface Facility Explosion Hazards Objective : (1) To develop an accu- rate understanding of the extent and nature of the fire and/or explosion haz- ards in surface facilities that clean, crush, process, dry and transport coal, or otherwise use or generate coal, coal dust, or other flammables during minerals processing; (2) to develop an acquisition methodology, and to obtain the safety engineering data base necessary to set realistic standards and regulations for such facilities. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Analysis of Fire Safety Tests and Standards Objective : To analyze current regu- latory tests, establish standard test procedures, and recommend regulatory changes. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Explosion Hazards of Oil Shale Mining and Processing Objective ; Conduct field tests and surveys in operating oil shale mines to assess methane and dust hazards, explo- sion hazards of in situ and surface retorting of oil shale, and conduct lab- oratory tests and sample analyses as appropriate. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 4. Fire Hazards of Oil Shale Mining and Processing Objective ; Conduct field tests and surveys in operating oil shale mines to assess methane and dust hazards, fire hazards of in situ and surface retorting of oil shale study spontaneous combustion of oil shale and conduct laboratory tests and sample analyses as appropriate. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Suppression Research 5. Frictional Ignition Suppression by the Use of Shearer Drum-Mounted Sprays Objective ; Investigate the effec- tiveness of water sprays for suppressing frictional ignition with chisel-type bits. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 6. Underground Electrical Installation Fire Protection Objective ; To develop structural and fireproof guidelines for electrical equipment installations that meet the requirements of Section 75.1105, CFR 30. This is a new RFP. Propagation Research 7. Fire Protection for Plastic Stacks in Mine Shafts Objective ; To perform fire experi- ments in laboratory-scale shafts to (1) develop optimum means for prevention, suppression, and extinguishment of mine 35 shaft fires; and (2) establish scaling laws for mine shaft fires. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 8. Large-Scale Gallery Testing To Establish Fire Hazards Objective ; To operate a large-scale fire gallery for evaluating the relative effectiveness of fire safety measures in metal and nonmetal mines, and to rec- ommend improvements in mine safety and fire regulations based on results of fire trials. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Detection, Instrumentation, and Alarm Research 9. Pneumatic Fire Detection System for Underground Conveyor Belt Haulageways Objective ; To determine the per- formance characteristics of a pneumatic fire detection system under normal mine operating conditions. This is a contin- uation of an ongoing effort. 10. Evaluate the Feasibility of Remotely Measuring Methane Objective ; To fabricate a prototype instrument for remotely measuring methane concentrations. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 11. Demonstration of a Mine Shaft Fire and Smoke Protection System for Coal Mines Objective ; This cost-sharing, follow-on work will extend the duration of in-mine testing of the prototype hard- ware and modify it for lower maintenance. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 12. Improvement of Coal Mine Dust Incombustible Content Analyzer Objective ; To implement improve- ments in design and construction of a coal mine dust incombustible content 36 analyzer, as warranted by testing the present prototype in FY 81. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 13. Multilevel, Deep Shaft Fire Detection Objective : To evaluate and field test a pneumatic fire detection system for multi-level shafts. This is a con- tinuation of an ongoing effort. 14. Improvement of Coal Mine Dust Incombustible Content Analyzer Objective : To continue development of an alternative incombustible content meter. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 15. Poisoning of Catalytic Methane Sensors Objective ; To determine catalytic poisons for methane sensors and to test methods of protection of the sensors for improvement of operational reliability. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 16. Development of Remote Readout Coal Dust Deposition Rate Monitor Objective ; To develop a mineworthy instrximent for the measurmement of dust deposition rate in a mine passageway and remotely readout the deposition rate. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 17. High Concentration Dust Meter Objective : To evaluate the high concentration dust meter through field tests. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 18. Upgrade Stench Warning System Objective : Demonstrate the improved stench fire warning system in a large multilevel metal mine. This is a contin- uation of an ongoing effort. 19. Long Term, In-Mine Testing of Second Generation Spontaneous Combustion Fire Warning System Objective ; To evaluate the in-mine reliability of the second generation spontaneous combustion fire protection system for noncoal mines. This hardware was developed under Bureau of Mines under FMC Corp. contract H0282002. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 20. Omnidirectional Fire Extinguisher for Mine Equipment Objective ; To improve and simplify the design of the omnidirectional fire extinguisher and gather long-term rug- gedness and reliability data through extensive in-mine testing. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 21. Improved Fire Protection For Underground Fueling Areas Objective : To develop reliable mineworthy fire detection and extin- guishment system to protect fuel transfer and storage locations in underground mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Methane Control Program Objectives : To develop , demonstrate, and transfer technology that will prevent the formation of flammable methane-air mixtures in underground mine workings through improved ventilation and procedures for degasifying the coal seam in advance of and during mining. To establish correlations between the geol- ogy of the material to be mined and its gas content, and to use these to predict methane emission hazards. Control During Mining Assess Oil Shale and Salt Mine Ventilation Requirements and Provide Reconmendatlons for Improved Ventilation Systems Objective ; To characterize ventila- tion requirements for methane control during the mining of salt and oil shale deposits, study the effectiveness of cur- rently existing ventilation systems, recommend ventilation Improvements for the mine, and Identify the key problem areas that warrant future research. This Is a new RFP. 2. Cableless Borehole Survey Tool Objective ; To competitively procure two electronic borehole surveying units for test and evaluation. The electronic surveying Instrument aids in maintaining precise control during horizontal dril- ling, reduces survey time, and permits routine drilling to lengths of 2,000 to 3,000 feet. The Instruments shall be tested and evaluated for reliability under a wide variety of drilling condi- tions. This is a new RFP. 3. Improved Dlffuser and Spray Fan System for Ventilation of Coal Mine Working Faces Objective ; To provide a spray fan system with sufficient methane control capability for any gassy work faces; to devise, develop, and test a new auxiliary face ventilation concept, combining the advantages of dlffuser fan and water spray ventilation; to evaluate, modify, and upgrade sensor positioning and pro- tection for machine-mounted methane moni- tors. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 4. Improved Check Curtains, Line Curtains, and Extensible Face Ventilation Systems Objective ; Evaluate present check curtains, line curtains, and exten- sible face ventilation system for cost 37 practicality and air-sealing ability. Investigate ways to improve upon cur- rently used check curtains, line cur- tains, and extensible face ventilation systems, and design new and improved sys- tems. Select the best check curtains, line curtains, and extensible face venti- lation systems and test them at the work- ing sections of coal mines. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Ground Control Program Objectives ; To conceive, develop, demonstrate, and transfer tech- nology that will prevent mine accidents attributable to falls of ground, out- bursts, slope failures, and collapse of waste Impoundment structures. Mine Design and Development 1. Field Demonstration of Deep- Penetrating Borehole Geophysical Techniques Objective ; Develop a borehole geo- physical technique to remotely sense and locate geologic features that indicate potentially hazardous zones or obstacles to future mine development. Work shall begin to establish practical field imple- mentation of the borehole radar probing method, and then transfer the technology to Industry through a series of field demonstrations at coal mine sites. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Combined Reflection and Through- Transmission Acoustic Cross-Borehole Logging System for Detection and Delineation of Geologic Hazards Objective ; Develop and test an acoustic system operating between bore- holes over distances up to about 330 meters for the purpose of detecting and delineating geological hazards within the borehole spacings. The system shall combine the best features of both reflec- tion and through-transmission acoustic systems. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 38 3. Blasting Parameters That Affect Highwall Stability Objective ; Determine the effect of controllable blasting factors on highwall stability by field testing. Parameters such as blasthole size, loading tech- niques, delay systems, burden and spac- ing, bench height, hole inclination, and geology shall be studied. A field manual for use by mine personnel shall be pre- pared. This is a new RFP. 4. Evaluation and Demonstration of Underhand Stoping to Control Rock Bursts Objective ; Demonstrate an underhand cut-and-fill stoping method that can replace the currently used overhand cut- and-fill method for deep, vein-type min- eral deposits, and determine its poten- tial to reduce rock bursts when used in conjunction with rock preconditioning techniques. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 5. Wallrock Reactions to Mining a Preconditioned Stope Zone at the Star Mine Roof Support Systems 7. Chemical Modification of a Pumpable Resin Objective ; Provide chemical engi- neering consulting assistance in the field demonstration of the pumpable bolt. This will Insure that the quality of the pumpable resin chemistry meets or exceeds minimum safety standards acceptable to MSHA. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 8. Commercial Production Feasibility of Inorganic Cartridges Objective ; Identify and evaluate problem areas in the continuous produc- tion of water capsules and hydrocal car- tridges using commercial equipment, and evaluate the quality of through laboratory and This is a continuation effort. Safe Support Installation 9. Development of a Roof Competence Tester these products field testing, of an ongoing Objective ; Process mlcroselsmic data from the Star Mine using the Bureau of Mines computer facility, locate poten- tial rock bursts, and advise and train mine personnel until stoping is finished in a destressed area 450 feet long between the 7700 and the 7900 levels.* This Is a new RFP. Hazard Detection and Monitoring Systems 6. Ultrasonic Forward Scanning for Coal Mine Seam Hazard Detection Objective ; Develop a hand-held, ultrasonic scanner for use at the working face to rapidly and conveniently detect faults and voids ahead of mining. This is a new RFP. Objective ; Develop and evaluate a hand-held Instrument for accuracy and reliability in detecting cracks, fis- sures, delaminatlons, and poorly cemented and otherwise weak rock structure in coal mine roofs. The instrument shall be suitable for use with all thicknesses of coalbeds and different roof compositions. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 10. Retreat Mining Support System Objective ; Design, build, and field demonstrate a second generation mobile roof support machine for retreat mining that will operate in 5- to 15-foot coal seams. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 39 11. Design and Develop Standardization Controls Objective ; Extend and apply past research efforts on human engineering technology in a practical, uniform way to new roof bolting machines and demonstrate their contributions in correcting present hazardous, accident-prone situations. The work is detailed design and fabrica- tion. The final control configurations will be adopted in the SAE handbook. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 12. Inorganic Grout Slurry Bolters Objective ; Design, build, and mine test a machine that will mix and inject fast-setting inorganic grouts. The final object of the program is commercial acceptance of the bolter. Phase III (laboratory testing of the complete syn- thesized system) and Phase IV (mine test- ing and final report) shall be completed. This will include installation of from 70 to 100 bolts to support an intersection. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 13. Develop Equipment to Expedite the Safe Installation of Roof Trusses Objective ; Design and demonstrate mechanical installation equipment and practices for solid-rock roof trusses which will speed up the cycle time yet reduce the handling hazards associated with current practices. This is a con- tinuation of an ongoing effort. 14. Fabricate and Test an Articulated Remote, Manual Roof Bolter Object ; Fabricate, laboratory test, and perform an underground demonstration of a prototype, articulating, remote man- ual roof bolter to evaluate the amount of accident reduction potential and produc- tion rate improvement. This is a contin- uation of an ongoing effort. 15. Extended Field Test of Torque-Thrust Control and Hardened Washers Objective ; Determine the effects of using hardened washers and a Bureau- developed, torque-thrust control bolter on uniformity of bolt tension and roof control. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 16. Resin Injection and Resin Doweling for Longwall Face Stabilization Objective ; Define and rank problems of roof and face stabilization in long- walls, evaluate foreign and domestic technology in resin-injection and resin- doweling for application in U.S. mines; select those techniques that indicate the greatest benefits per cost and are not unnecessarily hazardous; develop testing procedures to demonstrate their effec- tiveness on longwall stabilization prob^ lems; perform and document the demonstra- tion and reassess the cost and safety benefits. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 17. Remote Drill-Bolting System for Metal-Nonmetal Mining Objective ; Design, build, and mine test a remote drill-bolt system for metal and nonmetal mining that will remove the bolter operator from the bolting opera- tion and place him in a protected area not exposed to unsupported ground or mov^ ing equipment. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 18. Scaling Tool Objective ; Fabricate a novel scal- ing tool. A unique tool for mine roof scaling was invented under a contract funded by the Bureau of Mines. The tool will be fabricated and delivered to the Bureau where it will be mounted on a car- rier and tested. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 40 Mining and Minerals Processing Waste Stability 19. Aerial Photogrannnetrlc Survey of Surface Coal Waste Disposal Sites Objective : In conjunction with a coiiq)anlon In-house project, field test aerial photogrammetry techniques to sup- plement MSHA Inspection of coal waste disposal in a selected MSHA district. This is a new RFP. 20. Centrifuge Modeling of Design Criteria of Mine Waste Embankments Objective : Determine safety cri- teria for tailings embankments by simu- lating the field conditions using a cen- trifuge for modeling. Tests shall be run on a 25-foot-radlus centrifuge to inves- tigate seepage and erosion effects, foun- dation differentials, and other embank- ment construction problems. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 21. Critical Parameters for Tailings Embankments Objective : Construct probability density functions of soil parameters for tailings embankments of selected mineral commodities in the United States. The contractor shall collect and categorize engineering parameters of tailings embankments for future input to slope probablistic models for slope stability ^ analysis, thus enabling determination of confidence intervals about the factor of safety of tailings embankments. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Industrial Hazards Program Objectives : To limit the possibility of human error through train- ing and worker-machine interfacing, improve equipment design and controls, detect and prevent failures of electric circuitry and hardware, provide adequate lighting in working areas, insure contin- uous and reliable communication between all underground and surface personnel while providing continuous surveillance of the mine environment, and Improve safety in haulage and materials-handling operations. Human Factors 1. Benefit-Cost Approach to Coal Mine Training: A Practioner's Viewpoint Objective ; To develop an applied benefit-cost model to be used by training and safety practitioners in assessing the most effective training program for their particular mine site. The focus of the model will be on training Investments relative to property damage and loss-time accidents. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Development of Materials and Strategies for Normal and Emergency Operation of Equipment Objective ; To develop baseline course materials for major types of sur- face mining equipment including but not limited to scrapers, dozers, graders, hydraulics, excavators, and drills to reduce the risk to inexperienced equip- ment operators while assisting mine oper- ators in complying with task training requirements outlined in Part 48, CFR 30. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Development of a Standardized Method of Performance Evaluation for Underground Equipment Operators Objective ; To develop a standarlzed method of evaluating the performance of an operator of various pieces of under- ground equipment. This is a new RFP. 4. Study to Determine the Feasibility of Utilizing Employee Assistance Programs in the Mining Industry Objective ; To continue with the contract for exploring the feasibility of utilizing employee assistance programs to reduce accidents associated with employee personal difficulties. This is a contin- uation of an ongoing effort. 5. Cause and Effect of Absenteeism on Accident and Injury Experience of Those Relieving the Absentee Objective ; To determine the effect absenteeism has on the accident and injury experience of those relieving the absentee. This is a new RFP. 6. Development of a Handbook on Mine Rescue Organizations and Procedures miners' awareness and knowledge of electrical hazards. This is a continu- ation of an ongoing project. 10. Refinement of the Shuttle Car Training System Objective ; To evaluate and assess the training capabilities of the present shuttle car training system. This a continuation of an ongoing project. Objective ; To develop a handbook that would serve as a guide to mine oper- ators and officials on the proper methods and procedures to follow for conducting a successful mine rescue operation. The handbook would focus on aboveground oper- ations and organization rather than the actual in-mine rescue attempt. This is a new RFP. 7. Low-Cost Methods for Developing and Distributing a Training Package for the Operation of the Oxygen Self-Rescuer Objective ; To develop and validate a low-cost training guide, training tech- niques that are partially suitable for use in small mines, and informal training sessions. The topic of the training mod- ules will be the use of the new prototype oxygen self -rescue devices. This is a new RFP. 8. Biomechanical and Work Physiology Study in Underground Mining Excluding Low Coal Objective ; To continue the bio- mechanical study of work in underground noncoal mines with the intent of gener- ating data that will be utilized in the optimal design for the job-work station. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 9. In-Depth Awareness of Electrical Hazards for Use in New Miner Training and/or Refresher Training Objective ; Produce a training pro- gram suitable for both new miner and refresher training; to enhance the 11. Development and Validation of Training Program for Operators of Underground Noncoal Equipment Objective ; To continue with devel- opment and validation of training pro- grams that will instruct miners in the proper preshift inspection, operating, and shutdown procedures for various types of major machines and equipment utilized in underground noncoal mines to reduce accidents and injuries. This is a con- tinuation of an ongoing effort, 12. Preparation of Baseline Training Materials for Assisting Compliance- Accident Reduction in the Noncoal Mining Industry Objective ; To assess and evaluate the training materials produced under this contract and allow for contingencies not anticipated for those procurements initiated in FY 81. This is a continua- tion of an ongoing effort. 13. A Study of Human Engineering and Organizational Development in Underground Metal and Nonmetal Mining Objective ; This work will be a con- tinuation and expansion of a contract initiated in FY 78 with the objectives to identify and define specific human factor problem areas in the underground metal and nonmetal mining industry that are susceptible to research solution or solu- tion through application of state- of-the-art knowledge; and to reduce human error associated with accidents through application of organizational development principles. 42 Electrical 14. Trial Cable Construction and Usage Improvement Objective ; To improve ability of mine cables to withstand the harsh envi- ronment and demanding performance inher- ent in the mining situation, through improved construction, repair, and han- dling; and to promote the use or improved methods of cable protection and personnel protection. Continuing contracts. 15. DC Rail Haulage System Electrical Protection Objective : To find and demonstrate effective means of assuring electrical safety in rail haulage systems. New and continuing contracts. 16. Recommendations for QA Standards in Explosion-Proof Enclosures Objective ; To develop quality assurance (QA) standards for explosion- proof enclosures. These standards would be used by manufacturers and MSHA to ensure that the safety of the enclosures are not compromised by workmanship. Con- tinuing contract. 17. Energized HI Voltage Indicator Objective ; Develop an indicator that could be placed on a high voltage (HV) cable in a power center or switch' house that would indicate if the cable is energized. New contract. 18. Recommendation for a Mine Hoist Electrical Inspection Manual Objective ; Develop recommendations for a manual on hoist controls used in U.S. mines. The manual will be used by MSHA inspectors to determine compliance with regulations and for safety inspec- tions of mine hoists. New contra'ct. 19. Environmental Test Criteria Validation Objective : Conduct an analysis of the validity of the recommended criteria for operational reliability tests of mine instrumentation developed under con- tract J0100040. New contract. 20. Mine Electrical Power Systems Reliability Objective ; To assess in practical terms the dependability of mine power system components, particularly the pro- tective devices, to determine optimal inspection and maintenance, and suggest areas of improvements. Continuing contract. 21. Examination of Existing Intrinsic Safety Standards for Electrical Equipment Used in Oil Shale Mining Objective ; To examine the unique conditions encountered in oil shale oper- ations expressly to determine the appli- cability of current permissibility and intrinsic safety standards, and the suit- ability of the electrical and electronic equipment. Continuing contract. Equipment 22. A Study to Determine the Need for Lateral Load Requirements on Canopy Regulations Objective ; Determine the limits and desirability of a lateral load resistance capability regulation for underground equipment canopies. This is a new RFP. 23. Radar-Transponder Anticollision Systems for Large Mine Haulage Trucks Objective : Long-term, in-mine test on the rugged, low-cost, radar- transponder-type anticollision systems 43 developed in FY 81. This is at ion of an ongoing effort. a continu- 24. Commercialization of the Front-End Loader Stability Indicator Objective ; To optimize the elec- tronic circuitry and packaging of the Bureau's front end loader stability indi- cator so that the system will be accept- able for incorporation on new front end loaders. This is a continuation of an ongoing project. 25. Development and Assessment of New and Existing Canopy Technology to Lower Coal Seams Objective ; To demonstrate the advantages and desirability of transverse cabs for use in low seams. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 26. Development of Limited Coverage Falling Object Protective Structures, for Low Coal (42" or less) Face Equipment Objective ; To successfully demon- strate that limited coverage protective structures can be employed in the low seam situation without adversely affect- ing operator visibility and comfort. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 27. Development of ROPS Performance Criteria for Large Mobile Mining Equipment Objective ; Provide data on large machine ROPS performance criteria by actual rollover tests of two large machines (over 200,000 pounds) to deter- mine if present criteria are adequate. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. controlling a low coal continuous miner from a remote operator station. Such demonstration will confirm that face equipment can be effectively operated off-board from a human engineered work station located away from the hazard of the face area. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 29. Analysis of ROPS in Service for at Least 5 Years Objective ; Examine and evaluate the fatigue-related problems of ROPS due to the vibrations inherent to the machine on which it is mounted and the terrain char- acteristics of the surface mine. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Illumination 30. Innovative Illumination Hardware Application Engineering and Demonstration Objective ; To refine, application engineering and demonstrate new low glare illumination systems that are presently being developed under other contracts. 31. Illumination of Thin Seam and Specialized Mining Equipment Objective ; To provide assistance to MSHA and the raining industry in the illumination of particularly difficult machines. These machines, such as rope- propelled auger miners and other typi- cally specialized machines that have been exempted from the regulations, will be illuminated and evaluated. New contract. 32. Investigation of Retroreflective Material Applications for Underground Coal Mine Environments 28. Fabrication and Demonstration of a Continuous Miner Controlled Through a Remotely Positioned Operator Using a Human Engineered Cab Objective ; To develop and then suc- cessfully demonstrate the technology for Objective ; To investigate the applicability and benefits of the use or retroreflective materials to enhance vis- ibility in underground coal mine environ- ments. New contract. A4 33. Determination of the Illumination Requirements of Shaft, Tunnels, and Slopes Objective : Operations study of shafts, tunnels, and slopes to define tasks and work areas for specify- ing illumination requirements. New contract. 34. Development of Training Materials and Audio Visual Aids on Mine Illumination Objective : To develop training materials and audio visual aids for instruction of mine illumination technol- ogy. New contract. 35. Alternate Ways of Specifying and Regulating Mine Illumination Systems Objective : To investigate alternate ways of specifying and regulating illu- minated underground coal mine environ- ments. New contract. 36. Feasibility Studies and Demonstrations of Proposed Surface Mine Illumination Standards Objective ; To demonstrate the feasibility and evaluate the adequacy of the proposed surface coal mine illumina- tion standards. New contract. 37. Recommendations for Minimal Luminance Requirements for Metal-Nonmetal Mines. Continuing Contract. Objective : Define and recommend minimal lighting which is required to safely and efficiently perform task, jobs, and unit operations in all underground metal and nonmetal mines. Continuing contract. Communications-Monitoring 38. Study of Radio Frequency (RF) Hazards at Low and Medium Frequencies to Blasting In Underground Mines Objective : Determine the hazard posed by low and medium frequency radio systems in underground mines, and to report the results in a comprehensive final report useful to regulatory agencies, communications designers, and the mining industry. Continuing contract. 39. Sixth WVU Conference on Coal Mine Elect rotechnology Objective : To provide a forum for industry. Government, etc., to present the latest developments in coal mine health and safety related electrotechnol- ogy. New contract. 40. Guidelines for Environmental Monitoring in Coal Mines Objective : To develop guidelines for environmental monitoring in coal mines which include cost- benefits, implementation guidelines, and real world case studies. Continuing contract. 41. Multiplex Distribution System for Multichannel Pager Phone Communication Objective : To design, fabricate, and test a multichannel telephone com- munication system using the selectable pager phone as a local intercom which will provide maximum communication capa- bility at minimum cost. Continuing contract. 45 42. Interaction of Mine Radio Systems With Mine Telemetry and Control Systems Objective ; To investigate potential problems concerning the parasitic cou- pling of electromagnetic energy (mostly medium frequency) into environmental or control elementary lines, and to environ- mental sensors or control devices. 47. Evaluation of Black River Mine Telecommunication System Objective ; To independently and objectively evaluate the impact of a passive reflector uhf radio system and a CCTV system on the operation of a room- and-pillar limestone mine. Haulage and Materials Handling 43. Multiplex Telephone System for Small 48. Mines Development of Consistent Low G Hoist Arrestment Devices Objective ; To provide Incremental funding for continuation of an existing contract and extending the scope of work of that contract to provide for automatic interrogation of phone flags. Continuing contract. 44. Systems Approach to Mine Fire Safety Objective ; To develop predictable consistent low G hoist arrestment devices which eliminate the high transient forces developed during an arrestment. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 49. Personnel Transport Vehicle Demonstration Objective ; To develop a quantita- tive evaluation model to be used in rat- ing, in terms of equivalance to CFR Title 30 requirements, fire safety moni- toring equipment, and other fire- protection features used in underground coal and metal-nonmetal mines, using a systems approach. Continuing contract. 45. Underground Mine Monitoring and Control Testing Criteria Objective ; To develop a process and test apparatus for evaluating the per- formance of prospective monitoring sys- tems for use in underground mines. This development will have the capability of performing accelerated evaluations to both software and hardware through the use of a sophisticated computer-based test fixture. Continuing contract. 46. Equipment and Services for Black River Mines Objective ; To provide equipment and engineering servics for timely execution of the "Evaluation of the Black River Mine Telecommunication System" contract. Continuing contract. Objective ; Modify an existing vehicle to incorporate the concepts developed under contract H0366003 and then demonstrate-validate the safety improvements affected by this modifica- tion. This is a new RFP. 50. Driver Alertness Monitoring Systems for Large Haulage Vehicles Objective ; Develop and demonstrate reasonable prices, reliable driver alert- ness monitoring systems for large, open pit haulage vehicles. This is a continu- ation of an ongoing effort. 51. Development of a Fail-Safe, Slack-Overload Rope Protection System Objective ; The purpose is to review existing rope devices to uncover defi- ciencies that may exist, and correct those deficiencies or develop improved instrumentation for slack-overload pro- tection in keeping with present mining technology. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 46 Postdisaster Program Objectives ; To develop technology that will (1) enable survivors of a mine disaster to escape from the mine or to continue to survive while awaiting rescue by providing protection against toxic and/or oxygen-deficient atmospheres, (2) aid in the location of miners trapped underground, using seismic and electromagnetic means of communica- tion, and (3) facilitate postdisaster rescue and recovery operations through surface monitoring of conditions under- ground, emergency communications, and mechanized transport and life support equipment for mine reentry and rescue operations. Survival 1. Lightweight Oxygen Cylinders Objective ; To develop a new U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) approved lightweight O2 pressure vessel. To improve mine rescue technology. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Compressed Oxygen Self-Rescuer Objective ; Contractor will develop a 1-hour compressed oxygen self-rescuer comparable in size and weight to avail- able O2 self-rescuers. Thirty units to be accepted by the Bureau of Mines for further tests and demonstrations in part, of FY 82. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 3. Physiological Responses of Coal Miners to Emergency Objective ; The contractor will quantitatively evaluate the physiological responses (circulatory and respiratory) of both male and female miners while wearing self-contained breathing appa- ratus (SCBA) for purposes of emergency escape or rescue. This involves measur- ing the psychomotor and physiological costs to the wearer while breathing against (1) positive pressure, (2) high CO2 concentrations, and (3) variable resistance. Within the next 3 years. this contract should define safe limits for the parameters listed and publish data to support said limits to support efforts to revise MSHA-National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) regulations 30 CFR 11. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 4. Improved Oxygen Sources for Breathing Apparatus Objective ; Development of solid chemicals that provide more oxygen per unit weight than KO2 could allow for the design of a lighweight oxygen-supplying breathing device for purposes of escape. Final report will provide information on solid O2 sources to be used in future oxygen self-rescuer design and develop- ment. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 5. Evaluation of New 30 CFR 11 Human Subject Test Objective ; Contractor will test current breathing apparatus to determine the ability of these devices to validate newly developed human tests for 30 CFR IIH. Contractor will also test effect of using positive pressure breathing appa- ratus with new human tests. To revise current MSHA-NIOSH requirements of 30 CFR IIH. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Communications 6. Electromagnetic Rescue System for Deep Mines Objective ; Over the past several years, the Bureau has been experimenting with voice frequency (VF) communication systems for detection and location of workers trapped underground. The present system has been shown to be effective in a substantial number of coal mines and it is anticipated that for mines no deeper than 300 meters, the technology is ade- quate. However, for deeper mines, which comprise about 10 percent in number and involve 20 percent of the work force, improvements will be necessary. The overall goal of this effort is to 47 investigate possible alternatives, select the most promising of these options, and build and demonstrate implementing hard- ware. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 7. Adaptive Noise Cancellation Techniques Objective : To study adaptive noise cancellation techniques using multiple three-axis loop antenna and develop algorithms to implement these techniques. This is a new RFP. 8. Reliability Study of Trapped Miner EM Transmitters Objective : To conduct a test pro- gram that will determine the durability and reliability of the Bureau-developed trapped miner location system, and to submit a comprehensive final report on all work, conclusions, and recommenda- tions. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 9. Real Time Seismic Auto Detection Objective : During the past year the Bureau has funded work to develop algo- rithms to enable MSHA's trapped miner seismic location system to automatically detect and locate trapped miners. How- ever, these algorithms will not be capa- ble of implementing real time operation with the present system. The objective of this proposed contract is to provide real time operation of the developed algorithms. This is a new RFP. Rescue and Mine Recovery 10. Low Profile, Lightweight Rescue Breathing Apparatus Objective ; Contractor will build 10 preproduction units of a 2-hour, low-profile, compressed oxygen rescue breathing apparatus (RBA) which will be suitable for use in low coal and at long- wall faces. The RBA's will be developed and available for MSHA evaluation in early FY 84, This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 11. Study and Design of an Integrated System of Mine Rescue Team Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing Objective : To critically review personal protective equipment used by mine rescue team personnel and miners from the viewpoint of how adequately each piece of equipment affords the needed protection and is integrated with other equipment worn by a member of the team. To perform research and development of personal protective equipment for mine rescue. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 12. Comparison of U.S. and Foreign Rescue Techniques and Equipment Used to Locate and Communicate With Trapped Miners Objective : The contractor will determine the techniques and equipment used in other countries to locate and rescue trapped miners. A comprehensive report will be written on the subject. This is a new RFP. Explosives Program Objectives : To assess the problems associated with the safe and effective use of explosives in all types of mining activity including fixed explo- sives, blasting agents, blasting devices, and blasting accessories. To conduct fundamental studies of explosive behavior and apply the results in the development of new technology. To develop new and improved test procedures as new mining methods are introduced and new types of explosives are formulated. 48 Blasting Practices 1. Review of European Blasting Practices Used in Underground Mines and Permissibility Testing Procedures Objective : To review underground coal, metal, and nonmetal blasting prac- tices and permissibility testing and identify those techniques and procedures which relate to U.S. mining practices. This is a new procurement effort. Systems Engineering Program Objectives : To operate and maintain underground research and test facilities for use in testing and demon- strating new procedures and equipment before they are field tested in commer- cial mines. Systems Analysis 1. Development of a Pilot Program for Underground Mine Rescue and Emergency Utilizing Cooperative Resources Objective ; To investigate ways and means by which State facilities can be utilized in responding to mine disasters. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. 2. Analysis of Economic Impact of Fatal-Nonfatal Accidents in Surface Coal and Metal-Nonmetal Mines Objective : To develop surface coal and metal-nonmetal mine cost data bases for each year where coal accident and injury files are available from MSHA and develop an interactive information retrieval system. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. Test Facilities 3. Construction and Installation of Wire Hoist Horizontal Axial Fatigue Tensile Testing Machine Objective ; To build a wire rope testing machine and test hoist ropes of commonly used sizes and construction to subsequently obtain reliable data that can be used to improve retirement cri- teria standards, aid users in proper wire rope selection, improve MSHA inspection procedures, and improve MSHA wire rope regulations. This is a continuation of an ongoing effort. INT.-BU.OF MINES,PGH.,PA. 25930 ^^I^^^^5';':M.^ } PD %2.X ^^BBBBB^^HI ^^..♦^ :afe\ \./ .^;^»i^ ^^..^* *^^ - °^. *• w ^• ^^'\ -. V ..l:^;.'* o 0^ 'o,. 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