Refuge alternatives relief valve testing and design with updated test stand

Area of Science:

• Mining Safety Engineering
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Mechanical Systems

Background:

• Underground refuge alternatives require reliable air supply systems.
• Pressure relief valves are critical safety components in these systems.
• The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) sets specific pressure limits for these valves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of various pressure relief valves.
• To determine if these valves meet MSHA pressure relief specifications.
• To assess relief pressure and flow characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an instrumented test fixture with data acquisition, a blower, ductwork, and sensors.
• Tested five different pressure relief valves under varied conditions.
• Measured relief pressures and flow rates, including opening pressure.

Main Results:

• Relief pressures varied from 0.20 to 1.53 kPa (0.03 to 0.22 psi).
• Flow rates reached up to 19.3 m³/min (683 scfm).
• Some tested valves did not meet the MSHA 1.25 kPa (0.18 psi) specification.

Conclusions:

• Not all tested pressure relief valves met the required MSHA safety standard.
• Valve performance varied significantly, highlighting the need for rigorous testing.
• Further research may be needed to ensure compliance and safety in refuge alternative systems.