Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Engineering, Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna, Nigeria

L. K. Salati and M. Lawal

Design of Drainage System at Maiganga Coal Mine in Gombe State, North-Eastern Nigeria, Using Pumpsim Software

Keywords: Coal mine; mine looding; pumpsim; runoff water; drainage system

Abstract

Abstract Excessive mine water increases in volume and consequently leads to mine looding. Flooded pits lead to disruptions in excavation, loading and haulage, while changes in the water catchment area can aggravate conditions that promote looding accompanied by huge socioeconomic consequences. To address the problem, this study undertook a computer - based design of a drainage system at Maiganga Coal Mine, Gombe State, north-western Nigeria, using Pumpsim software. The study involved determining the sources of water inlow into the mine and assessing the presently adopted system using suitable software for the design and simulation of a new drainage system for the mine. Microsoft Excel was used as an interface to analyse, convert and transfer data to Surpac in a usable form, which was then imported and processed the data in a suitable format for modeling. The modelled data was transmitted to pumpsim for eventual development of pipeline system simulation. The design parameters for this study included rainfall catchment surface area, rainfall data and prediction, and calculation of maximum runoff. The study considered heavy rainfall classiications of the study area based on ive - year rainfall data with a rainfall plan of 1309.44 mm/day and 40 mm/hour intensity respectively. The study also designed the use of a pervious sump for the collection of runoff water from the catchment area. Two pumps were suggested, one as the main sump pump and the other as a maintenance pump. Construction of two tanks beside the 3 sedimentation pump was also proposed to be 7855.0 m , each serving as a reserve for excess water collection at the shallow end of the sedimentation. Hence, any potential threat that could trigger looding in the mine would be practically eliminated by adopting the proposed drainage system.