DPM reductions at underground metal and nonmetal mines using alternative fuels

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has been assisting mine operators in meeting both current and future diesel particulate matter (DPM) regulations. To meet these requirements, mine operators can choose the controls that are best suited to their operation. Typical controls for DPM include: ventilation, clean engines, environmental cabs, alternative fuels, after-filters, and work practices. In an effort to evaluate the effectiveness of alternative fuels, MSHA, in cooperation with mine operators, has been conducting studies at underground mines to evaluate various alternative fuels encountered in the mining community. The alternative fuels tested include various biodiesel fuel blends of both recycled vegetable oil and soy bean oil-based and both summer blend and winter blend water emulsified fuels. The surveys have been conducted at four separate mines with similar surveys conducted at different underground mines to confirm results. The results of the surveys indicate significant reductions in both DPM emissions and personal exposures at the mines.