Fire Hazards of Coal Storage Sites - Monitoring and Protection

Abstract Coal’s high propensity for spontaneous combustion can be the cause of fires in coal heaps located at mine sites, power plants, distribution or coal handling points. The application of appropriate measures to prevent coal from self-igniting and consequently to protect against fire. This paper presents optimal methods for monitoring and fire protection of coal stockpiles. The selection of suitable stockpiles for testing was carried out, followed by an assessment of the condition of the stockpiles (measurements of the temperature of the surface and interior of the facility, studies of the chemical composition of the atmosphere inside the facility, and the composition of the atmospheric air on the facility and in its immediate vicinity. Continuous monitoring of the dump was carried out for visible changes indicative of possible thermal phenomena. This was followed by the selection of the method and method of application of the antipyrogen (injection and spraying) and trials with the antipyrogen. Application of the product was followed by further monitoring of the dumps and analysis of the results obtained.