Controlling Dust in Transfer Chutes

Transfer chutes can create large amounts of dust in coal mining operations, leading to heath and safety concerns for staff, stock loss and damage to equipment. Spraying Systems are the world leaders in dust suppression and dust prevention and our team of experts is ready to work with you to help solve your issues.

Transfer Chute Solutions

Nozzles being used for dust prevention in chutes need to be fitted on a spray bar in which the flat nozzles are directed into the ore stream. The spray angle should be narrow so that the impact force can penetrate the ore stream, allowing for improved absorption. By spraying into the ore stream, you avoid wetting the belts and it also allows for greater water absorption by the ore.

Additionally, on the same spray bar you can a fit hollow cone nozzles to reduce any airborne dust which will reduce the amount of dust being drawn out of the exit of the chute. If a spray bar cannot be fitted inside the chute a spray bar with nozzles should be fitted on the exit to allow maximum time for absorption before the next transfer point. The first nozzle should be a hollow cone nozzle to capture any airborne dust and the remaining nozzles should be flat nozzles for dust prevention.

Position nozzles at the beginning of the transfer point for dust prevention. Position nozzles to spray the air above the material at the end of the transfer points to suppress airborne dust.

The Spray Angle Selection

Making the correct decision on your spray angle is crucial to dust prevention and suppression. Spray angle of the nozzle can range from 0 to 180, is dependent upon the application, including spray pattern, the number of nozzles used and nozzle placement. For transfer chutes, a narrow angle is recommended.

Other points to consider

• Keep nozzles out of the range of equipment or falling debris that could cause damage
• Be sure nozzles are accessible for maintenance
• The precise placement of nozzles will depend on many factors
• Consult with Spraying Systems expert for nozzle supplier for recommendations