What size particles of coal dust can pass through to contribute to an explosion?

The size of particles that can contribute to a coal dust explosion is critical to understanding mine safety. Particles with a smaller mesh size are more likely to remain suspended in the air and, thus, create a combustible dust cloud. A mesh size of twenty (20) corresponds to a particle diameter of approximately 0.85 millimeters.

Particles of this size are small enough to be easily airborne and mixed with sufficient air to reach an explosive concentration. Coal dust that is finer, such as that passing through a mesh of forty (40), while still dangerous, doesn’t provide the same characteristics of explosiveness when compared to the size range indicated in the twenty (20) category.

Understanding the relationship between particle size and explosion potential is fundamental for implementing effective dust control measures in underground mining operations to enhance safety.