New laboratory measurement method for water spray dust control effectiveness

An innovative method for measuring dust reduction is presented. The approach involves measuring dust as it is introduced into a well-mixed chamber instead of into a tunnel. The technique is equivalent to measuring the product of airflow and dust reduction efficiency of scrubbers, filters and electrostatic precipitators; it is especially convenient in evaluating the effectiveness of open water sprays. The method, which monitors the decay of dust concentration and is useful for both charged and uncharged water sprays, promises numerous benefits including the following: 1) Steady dust production is not required; 2) Only single-point dust sampling is necessary; and 3) Only relative dust concentration accuracy is required. Laboratories engaged in dust control development for mines and mills are encouraged to consider adapting the measurement method for evaluating open sprays. A suitable mixed chamber can be designed, constructed and operated with much less effort than a two-phase tunnel. Data for the dust redu...