Mining Engineering Commons^™

Controlled Recirculation In Deep South African Gold Mines, Mark Butterworth

U.S. Mine Ventilation Symposium

Despite the many advantages and potential benefits of using controlled recirculation in Deep South African gold mines the strategy has found little favour. Indeed, controlled recirculation of air is at present rarely considered as an option in the planning and implementation of these underground ventilation systems. This paper broadly examines controlled recirculation, the benefits and advantages that could accrue from its use, reasons that may detract from its use and some solutions for addressing shortcomings. A brief historical review of controlled recirculation in the context of the South African gold mining industry is given. The advantages, which could result from …