Mining Publication: Comparison of Methane Concentrations at a Simulated Coal Mine Face During Bolting

Strategies for monitoring methane levels during roof bolting in an extended cut entry were evaluated. Testing was conducted at the Pittsburgh Research Laboratory's methane test gallery. Operating conditions were varied and methane releases at the face and drill holes were simulated. Methane readings were taken at the face, and at locations outby the face. Results show that, when the major source of methane was at the drill holes, the highest methane readings were at locations on or 6.1m inby the bolting machine. Methods for selecting better outby sampling locations, when the majority of the methane is released at the face, are examined. During roof bolting, it is easier to sample at these outby locations rather than at the face. Further testing is needed to determine what relationship exists between methane concentration at the outby locations and at the source of the methane release.