Direct Measurement of Total Aerodynamic Resistance in Mine Roadways Using a Two-Point Flow-Based Method

Accurate modeling of underground mine ventilation requires reliable estimates of roadway aerodynamic resistance. Conventional methods, based on geometric surveys or barometric pressure measurements, have notable limitations, including neglect of local losses, high time requirements, and sensitivity to environmental disturbances. This paper introduces a two-point flow-based method for determining roadway resistance directly from in situ measurements. Using basic instruments (anemometer, differential manometer, thermometer, and hygrometer), measurements are taken at two points along a straight airway. The pressure drop is calculated via the Bernoulli equation, allowing resistance to be determined without relying on geometric data or friction assumptions. This method captures both frictional and local losses inherently. Field testing in five roadway sections of a coal mine in Vietnam yielded resistance values 10–15 times higher than theoretical friction-only estimates, highlighting the importance of local losses. The equivalent cross-sectional areas back-calculated from the measured resistance using literature-based friction factors showed consistency with geometric survey data (typical deviation 3–6%), indicating internal coherence of the measurements. Full validation against independent barometric or CFD methods remains a subject of ongoing research. The method is simple, fast, minimally disruptive, and compatible with ventilation modeling tools. It provides a practical and accurate alternative for resistance estimation under real operating conditions.