The New South Wales Resources Regulator has warned mine sites of the importance of preserving the scene of an incident after an underground coal mine fire scene was not held.
The incident occurred last week when a dry scrubber load haul dump machine (LHD) was tramming underground.
The operator noticed sparks, embers and thick smoke coming from the exhaust, and the LHD was immediately shut down.
The incident was notified as a failure of explosion-protected characteristics on explosion-protected plant, however, the scene was not held.
The Regulator was able to obtain an image of the damage to the exhaust filter to help with its investigation.
“While an investigation is underway, the cause seems to be either the ignition of the glycol coolant that may have leaked into the exhaust, or the combustion of the exhaust particulate filter from excessive exhaust back pressure,” the Regulator said.
“Mine operators are reminded of statutory reporting requirements and the need to preserve incident sites in line with legislation.”
According to the Regulator, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) had communicated design improvements but these had not been made to this LHD at the time of the incident.
“Explosion-protected diesel engines must be used in accordance with their registration requirements and conditions,” the Regulator said.
“There are safety risks associated with using exhaust filters on diesel engines beyond the use/pressures recommended by the OEM.
“Mine operators should consider using non-flammable (non-glycol) coolants where the risk of glycol ignition is present. OEM upgrades should be completed where the upgrades improve safety.”
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