CFD simulation of the brattice barrier method for approaching underground mine fires

Fires are the most feared hazard in underground mines. The problems associated with underground mine fires calls for special techniques and treatments in its prevention and fire fighting. Each mine fire presents unique conditions from the perspective of dealing with it. The purpose of this paper is to present Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulated fire scenarios on which is tested the brattice barrier method for approaching underground mine fires. With this experimental CFD model we can determine the effectiveness of this method. These simulations were performed to determine if we increase the air velocity into the roof with help of brattice barrier, will this remove the smoke and heat upstream of the fire so that firefighters can approach safely and extinguish the fire. We can also observe the explosive range of the particles and gases that travel upstream of the fire and are then forced back into the fire area by this brattice barrier method