Numerical Simulation Study on Dust Diffusion Law of Single Bucket Truck Loading in Open-Pit Mine Under the Action of Airflow

To elucidate the dispersion and distribution patterns of particulate matter during the loading operations of single bucket trucks in open-pit mines under external environmental influences, this study employed numerical simulations to investigate the migration and distribution of airstreams and dust during the ore dropping process under various meteorological conditions. The findings indicate that the dust dispersion behavior during the ore loading process can be categorized into three stages: the free-falling material stage, the material accumulation stage, and the flow field decay stage. During loading, the impact airstream within the single bucket truck exhibits a symmetrical distribution, with the highest velocity reaching up to 14 m/s at the center of the truck. As the external wind speed increases, the dust dispersion distance correspondingly extends, while the reverse impact height decreases, making it less likely for the dust to resuspend. Additionally, wind speed significantly reduces the concentration of atmospheric dust; this reduction is most pronounced at a wind speed of 4 m/s. The external wind direction has a minimal impact on dust dispersion distance; however, when the bifurcation direction is parallel to the excavation direction, it poses a greater risk to worker health. These results provide a theoretical basis for dust control strategies and environmental assessments at single bucket truck loading points.