Can I use ultrasonic wind sensors in coal mines?

Preface.

The ultrasonic wind measurement technique uses ultrasound to detect wind speed and direction and has no moving parts compared to older anemometers, so rapid changes in wind speed, especially gusts and wind fluctuations, can be measured more accurately. This technique provides a more reliable way of measuring wind.

The ultrasonic wind speed and direction sensor FT-WQX2 recommended in this paper uses ASA material for the whole casing, which is not only light, but also robust, does not require on-site maintenance and calibration, and can output two kinds of data on wind speed and direction at the same time.

1.The back of coal mine application of ultrasonic technology

Wind speed measurement is critical to mine safety, but existing technology has errors. Usually the wind speed is fastest in the centre of the tunnel and decreases towards the edges. Currently used sensors and wind meters do not measure accurately enough, especially in large roadways. To improve the accuracy, a multi-point measurement system is needed.

2. Basic Principle

Ultrasonic wind speed sensors measure wind speed by two devices sending and receiving sound waves to each other. One device sends out sound waves and the other receives them. Because of the wind, sound waves travel fast downwind and slow upwind. The wind speed can be calculated by comparing the time difference between when the wind is blowing downwind and when it is blowing against the wind.

Two ultrasonic probes are installed on the tunnel wall. When the wind blows, the round trip time of the ultrasonic waves between the probes changes. By calculating this time difference, the wind speed and direction can be known. Because the probes cover the whole tunnel, the measured wind speed is representative.

3. Specific applications

The wind speed and direction sensors used in mines can detect wind speed and direction in real time. If the wind speed is abnormal, the sensor will issue an alarm to remind the staff to check the ventilation to ensure the safety of the mine.

4.Conclusion

The ultrasonic wind speed and direction meter is a hassle-free device that is small in size and easy to carry and install. It can be activated at wind speeds as low as 0.1 m/s and provides a measurement accuracy of ±0.1 m/s. It solves the problem of wind measurement in coal mines and is suitable for nationwide promotion.