Here are a few of the codes you may choose to use to design, analyze, and operate you ventilation

system. I include some

information about the capabilities of each code, not only because this saves you looking up the links, but it also helps us understand
the many aspects of a ventilation system that need to be addressed.

Ventsim appears to be one of the leading computer codes for mine ventilation analysis. They describe their code thus:

"Ventsim is an underground mine ventilation simulation package designed to simulate airflows (and many other types of ventilation
data) from a modeled network of airways. Ventsim is the first ventilation package to integrate an easy to use Windows graphical
design with a 3D graphics interface. The software is currently used by over 300 mines, universities, consultants and research
organizations throughout the world."

Mine Ventilation Services lists a suite of computer codes for mine ventilation planning, design, and analysis. These include:

VnetPC: Given data that describes the geometry of the mine network, airway resistance or dimensions, and the location and
characteristic curves of fans, the program will provide detailed listings and graphical representations of:

 Branch Airflows.
 Frictional Pressure Drops.
 Airway Resistance.
 Air Power Losses in Airways.
 Ventilation Cost of Each Airway.
 Fan Operating Points (Pressures and Airflows).
 Duties of Required Regulators and Booster Fans

MineFire: MineFire allows the user to simulate fires, heat flow, contaminant flow, and/or natural ventilation in underground ventilation
networks using the familiar VnetPC graphical and tabular interfaces. Results are displayed both symbolically and numerically on the
schematic.

DuctSIM: DuctSIM is a simulation program designed for both the mining and tunnelling industries to assist engineers and planners
with the design and modelling of fan and duct systems. It provides a new user-friendly, cost-effective tool to quickly design, model,
and analyze proposed or existing duct systems ranging from small secondary fan/duct installations to large series-fan
systems.According to input data, the user is able to construct models and optimize them by considering duct type and diameter,
shock losses, and the number, type and spacing of fans. The program may be used for initial design, or to help troubleshoot and
improve existing duct installations. It is useful in showing personnel the reasons behind a poor installation and ways to improve the
system, resulting in safer working conditions.

ClimSIM: ClimSIM for Windows (Version 1.0) is a computer software program that is designed to aid mine ventilation and
environmental engineers in the prediction of the thermodynamic and psychrometric properties of air as it flows through underground
airways. The program takes into account geothermal gradient, rock thermal conductivity and diffusivity, airflow, air quality, age of the
excavation, wetness of the rock surfaces and the sitting and capacity of machinery, heat exchangers or other local or disseminated
sources of heat and humidity.

Other ventilation software is reviewed by Gibbs Associates. Here are summaries of some that she reviews in extensor:

MIVENA: This ventilation simulator was developed in 1986 and consists of the analytical calculation systems, as well as RDBMS,
the 2D/3D graphic CAD system for deformed network skeleton and air-conditioning design system. The main functions of the
MIVENA program are as follows:

1) A system to account for airflow rate and climate.

2) The computer aided air-conditioning (cooling and heating) system developed to estimate airflow climate by using a psychrometric
system.
3) A psychrometric chart to deal with air conditions applicable to a very deep underground mine.

I could not link to the website Betty gives. She says to contact Akita University, Department of Earth Science and Technology,
Faculty of Engineering and Resource Science, Akita 010-0852. JAPAN. E-mail: sasaki@uws47.mine.akita-u.ac.jp. I do not know if
they still work on this topic.

VUMA: VUMA is a windows-based software package for simulating atmospheric and environmental conditions in underground
mines. Joint developers are CSIR Miningtek, and Bluhm Burton Engineering of South Africa. VUMA allows a mine network to be
built up by linking numerous component elements, each with specific aerodynamic, thermodynamic and contaminant characteristics.
The basic component elements [branches] comprise: shafts, shaft stations, tunnels, development headings, stopes, fans, control
manager elements [which include air coolers and regulators].

The program simulates ventilation flows, temperatures, humidity and dust and gas concentrations throughout any mine network. It
can be applied to a full variety of underground mining methods for narrow-reefs, massive ore-bodies and colliery layouts with
different levels of mechanization.

Two- and 3-dimensional graphic enhancements facilitate creating, editing and analysis of mine ventilation networks. The software
can be used as a planning tool and as a means of verifying environmental and energy parameters in operational mines. The
concept of real-time VUMA network analysis driven by on-line monitors has great benefits for energy consumption control and
reduced operating costs.

Heat flows, dust and gas loads are calculated and can be used to analyze cooling strategies, contaminant dilution and ventilation
tactics. These include overall energy requirements and fans, air coolers and scrubber/filter needs. VUMA can be used for effective
energy management and the creation of safe and healthy conditions in mines.

Verified engineering principles are used to accurately calculate and quantify the relevant parameters. However, in mining
environments, there are some inputs that are difficult to quantify and rating categories have been developed for these inputs. For
example, categories are provided for: rock surface wetness, condition of pipe insulation, diesel work cycles, moisture ratings of heat
sources, in-stope water use and others.

A ‘steady-state’ flow simulator calculates aerodynamic, thermodynamic and contaminant dynamic [and tracking] properties. In
underground environments, ‘transient-state’ simulations of these parameters are only important in particular circumstances [for
example power failures]. ‘Transient-state’ simulators form another class of software and are available as separate stand-alone
products.

VentLog™ is a new standalone software package designed to record and store an

unlimited amount of surveyed underground ventilation data.
VentLog™ data can be utilised by Ventsim Visual™ to allow recorded results to be
instantly displayed and compared with modelled results within a 3D Ventsim Visual
model.
VentLog™ is primarily designed to replace old Excel spreadsheets or other inefficient
methods commonly used to record underground ventilation surveys.
VentLog™ accepts a wide variety of ventilation data such as air flows and velocities,
temperatures, pressures, PQ surveys and gases. The data is stored in an industry
standard database format file (which can be integrated or analysed by other systems).
Ventilation data can be instantly recalled for any underground location at any time or
date.
Ventilation survey forms an important part of a ventilation management plan, and is
usually a legal requirement for every mine . We believe this data is too valuable to
simply record on commonly used ad-hoc spreadsheets or databases.

Features of VentLog™:
 Easy to use interface and wizards to quickly set up ventilation record systems for mines.
 Underground survey locations can be established, including actual photos of underground
sites.
 Graphing features to allow multiple ventilation conditions to be trended over time at
different locations.
 Ventilation data and airflow direction can be exported to a DXF file, allowing easy
importing into mining plans to assist with statutory plans.
 All versions of Ventsim Visual™ 2.5+ provide a free interface to allow VentLog data to be
displayed within mine ventilation models.

Summary of
Mine Ventilation Analysis and Simulation
Software

Mine ventilation analysis and simulation have been run on computers since the mid
1960s. One of the earliest programs was published by Pennsylvania State University
Mining Department in Mining Engineering in 1965 (or thereabouts). The program
used a Hardy-Cross network balancing technique which was originally developed for
analyzing water flow networks. The Penn State program included the ability to enter
fan curves and put regulators in the network.

Other ventilation analysis software was developed by the U.S. Bureau of Mines and at
Michigan Tech. The MFIRE program developed at Michigan Tech in the 1970s
included the ability to analyze a ventilation network with a simulated fire situation.
Thermodynamic calculations were added to the network analysis scheme to provide
more realistic air flow analysis which considered air temperature as well as volumes.

Ventilation analysis systems have also been developed by other government

organizations such as CANMET in Canada, Ineris(Cerchar) in France, COMRO in
South Africa, and CSIRO in Australia. The early programs were developed in the
DOS environment. It is still possible to find these programs (many of which are free
code), but some digging is required to locate copies.

The ventilation analysis systems listed below are provided commercially by

consultants, sometimes in cooperation with government agencies. These programs are
Windows programs and include graphics as well as the network calculations.

CLIMSIM for Windows

The CLIMSIM program is a highly specialized, interactive package for predicting the
variation in psychrometric and thermodynamic properties of air as it travels along
shafts, slopes, or underground airways. The program delineates the psychrometric and
thermodynamic conditions of the air at user defined increments using the airway
characteristics, rock thermal parameters, heat sources, and air inlet conditions.
Capabilities of the program include:

 Allows networks to be entered to simulate multiple airways in

parallel or series.
 Utilizes any WINDOWS printer, plotter and digitizer drivers.
 Incorporates five independent WINDOWS views.
 Incorporates latest theory on heat transfer and heat stress indices.
 Spreadsheet type data input and output for viewing and printing
reports.
 Full cut, copy, paste functions within the CLIMSIM program, and
to other WINDOWS applications.
 Full-color screen graphics for viewing and printing/plotting.
 Complete Zoom and Pan capabilities.
 Full technical and engineering support.
 Compatible with Windows Version 3.1, Windows 95 and
Windows NT.
 Complete User’s Manual and Help Menu.
 Demonstration copies of the program are available free of charge.

The software is written in C++, Visual C++ and FORTRAN. It runs on PC or Laptop
with Windows 3.1/95/NT. Price: $950 new, $650 upgrade from DOS, $300 for
universities

For more information contact Keith G. Wallace, Jr., Ian J. Duckworth, or Brian S.
Prosser, Mine Ventilation Services, Inc. 4946 East Yale Avenue, Suite 103, Fresno,
California, 93727. Telephone: (559) 452-0182 Fax: (559) 452-0184.
Web: www.mvsengineering.com
MINVENT - MINE VENTILATION SIMULATION SYSTEM

Input of normal ventilation survey data, such as airway resistance, pressure drop and
air quantity, allows calculation of the network by the Hardy Cross method. This may
be used to generate tabulated reports, graphs of fan curves and fan operating points.,
network distribution diagrams, showing pressure drop, resistance and cost per year
and plans of airflow distribution.

Up to 50 regulators and up to 10 surface or underground fans can be specified.

Airflow across goafed areas may be represented as leakage paths. Natural ventilation
pressure can be considered. Network diagrams may be superimposed on mine plans
generated by MINDRAFT.

For more information contact Australian Coal Industry Research Laboratories, Ltd.
14-30 Delhi Road, P.O. Box 83 North Ryde, NSW 2113 AUSTRALIA.Telephone:
(61) 07 3282 2011. FAX: (61)07 3816 1107.
Email: info@acirl.com.au http://www.acirl.com.au/

MIVENA

This ventilation simulator was developed in 1986 and consists of the analytical
calculation systems, as well as RDBMS, the 2D/3D graphic CAD system for
deformed network skeleton and air-conditioning design system.

The "Skyline Nodal Pressure Method", used in MIVENA, has been successfully
applied to the network flow analysis scheme. The main functions of the MIVENA
program are as follows:

1) The installed strong analytical system for airflow rate and climate.

2) The input and output data forms designed in consistence with Windows
applications, such as work-sheet data, text, HPGLTM, Image pictures registered to the
node/airway.

3) The RDBMS designed to have some convenient functions used to delete or add
nodes and airways automatically by the original functions express the connections of
nodes.

4) The RDBMS also has advantages to set up a data-base to describe the mine layout
and solve network airflows for ventilation planning and design.
5) The computer aided air-conditioning(cooling and heating) system developed to
estimate airflow climate by using a psychrometric system.

6) The psychrometric chart presented on basis of the accurate equations for air
conditions applicable to a very deep underground mine. The ranges of pressure,
temperature and humidity may be specified by users.

The Computer Aided Air-Conditioning System: AIRPLOT(Psychrometric Chart) is

included in the software to estimate airflow climate by using a displayed
psychrometric chart based on the accurate equations for air conditions applicable to a
very deep underground mine. The psychrometric chart is available for ranges of
pressure, whilst temperature and humidity may be specified by users.

The programs were originally written in MS Visual BASIC Ver. 5(TM) and Visual
C++ Ver. 2(TM) (Open-GL script was partly used for the 3D graphic). MIVENA and
AIRPLOT run in Windows 95a/95b/98/NT3.51(SP5)/NT4(SP3). A free download of
MIVENA(ver6.2b) is available from the Web site: http://www.mine.akita-
u.ac.jp/mivena/Index-e.html

For more information contact Akita University, Department of Earth Science and
Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Resource Science, Akita 010-0852. JAPAN.
E-mail: sasaki@uws47.mine.akita-u.ac.jp

Tel: +81-188-89-2395, Fax: +81-188-37-0401

VNetPC2000

The VnetPC program is a Windows based program designed to assist personnel in

planning underground ventilation layouts. The program provides detailed listings and
graphical representations from data that describes the geometry of the mine network,
airway resistance or dimensions, and the location and characteristic curves of fans.
Output includes:

 Branch Airflows.
 Frictional Pressure Drops.
 Airway Resistance.
 Air Power Losses in Airways.
 Ventilation Cost of Each Airway.
 Fan Operating Points (Pressures and Airflows).
 Duties of Required Regulators and Booster Fans.
 Gas Flows and Concentrations in Branches.
VnetPC 2000 (for Windows) is a completely new program entirely programmed in the
32-bit format. The computation routine behind the graphical interface is based on the
same proven method as earlier DOS versions. The following features are a few of the
many that have been added:

 The Schematic View is fully interactive from the mouse, allowing

the user to develop and manipulate networks entirely from this
view.
 The network may be established and viewed in 3-D World
coordinates. Views include Plan, Cross-Section, Long-Section and
3D.
 DXF import allows networks to be developed as Lines, Polylines,
and Text, and to be imported into VnetPC as levels/groups of
data, or as an entire mine.
 The ability to color-code branches for type (intake, return, etc.) or
range (airflows, pressures, etc.).
 The option of specifying surface branches so that "dummy" zero-
resistance connections are no longer required.
 The option of automatically computing fan curves for fans added
in parallel or series arrangements (multiple fan tool).
 Automatic branch length calculation tool. This feature allows the
user to determine branch length based upon mine coordinates.
 Network size limits are set at 5,000 branches and 500 fans. The
iteration limit is set at 1000.
 Regulator orifice sizing tool for Fixed Quantity data.
 Report feature, to allow Printed Output to be generated that
incorporates data from the 9 separate views.
 VnetPC can simulate existing ventilation networks such that fan
operating points, airflow quantities, and frictional pressure drops
approximate those of the actual system.

The minimum hardware requirements include: IBM Compatible Computer running

Windows 95, 98 or NT; Pentium class processor or higher; 16 MB RAM Memory; 10
MB Hard Disk Space. The price is $1000.

For more information contact Keith G. Wallace, Jr., Ian J. Duckworth, or Brian S.
Prosser, Mine Ventilation Services, Inc. 4946 East Yale Avenue, Suite 103, Fresno,
California, 93727. Telephone: (559) 452-0182 Fax: (559) 452-0184.
Web: www.mvsengineering.com

Ventsim
Ventsim is an underground mine ventilation simulation package designed to simulate
airflows (and many other types of ventilation data) from a network of airways. The
software integrates Windows graphical design with 3D graphics similar to high end
CAD packages.

The program uses a fully graphical mouse driven interface in Windows. Features of
Ventsim include the following:

 - Up to 20,000 individual airways can be entered into a network

 - Up to 1000 different types of fans, complete with efficiencies
can be modeled within the network.
 - Up to 1000 different levels of airways can be used.
 - Networks can easily be created true to scale in three dimensions,
simply by drawing airways with the click of the mouse.
 - 3D rotation allows the modeled network to be rotated in real
time to assist in viewing and creating.
 - Contaminant simulation allows simulations of smoke, fumes or
other contaminants throughout a mine.
 - Importing and Exporting ASCII or DXF data from spreadsheets
or other CAD or Mine Planning packages.
 - Load modeling on regulators and bulkheads.
 - Pressure modeling of fans and fixed airflows.

These features provide the user with the tools to:

 Simulate and provide a record of flows in an existing mine.

 Perform 'what if' simulations for planned new development.
 Help in short term and long term planning of ventilation
requirements.
 Assist in selection of types and sizes of fans for mine ventilation.
 Help in choosing development fans and vent bag sizes.
 Assist in financial analysis of ventilation options.
 Simulate paths and concentrations of smoke, dust, or gas for
planning or emergency situations

The software runs on IBM PC with Microsoft 95/98/NT/2000. The price

is: AUD$1,800 US$1150. Special Academic/Educational Prices exist for Ventsim.
For further information email to ventsim@ventsim.com

For more information contact SDS AUSMINCO - Ventilation. 47-51 Vulcan Road, Canning
Vale, WA 6155 AUSTRALIA. International Phone +61 8 9455 4433 Fax +61 8 9455 1819.
Australia Phone: (08) 9455 4433 Fax: (08) 9455 1819 Web: www.sdscorp.com.au E-
mail: glynmorrey@sdscorp.com.au. Also, Downunder Mining P/L, POB 1166, 217 Barrington St,
Bibra Lake Perth WA 6965 AUSTRALIA. ph 08 9434 1100 fax 08 9434 1212 cell 0417 181
100. Brian Seth, e-mail:downundermining@bigpond.com

VUMA

VUMA is a windows-based software package for simulating atmospheric and

environmental conditions in underground mines. Joint developers, CSIR Miningtek
and Bluhm Burton Engineering of South Africa, are international leaders in this field.
This product is based on current research and development and uses state-of-art
procedures and technology. All algorithms have been verified in recent work and over
a development period of some two decades.

VUMA allows a mine network to be built up by linking numerous component

elements, each with specific aerodynamic, thermodynamic and contaminant
characteristics. The basic component elements [branches] comprise: shafts, shaft
stations, tunnels, development headings, stopes, fans, control manager elements
[which include air coolers and regulators].

The program simulates ventilation flows, temperatures, humidity and dust and gas
concentrations throughout any mine network. It can be applied to a full variety of
underground mining methods for narrow-reefs, massive ore-bodies and colliery
layouts with different levels of mechanization.

Two- and 3-dimensional graphic enhancements facilitate creating, editing and analysis
of mine ventilation networks. The software can be used as a planning tool and as a
means of verifying environmental and energy parameters in operational mines. The
concept of real-time VUMA network analysis driven by on-line monitors has great
benefits for energy consumption control and reduced operating costs.

Heat flows, dust and gas loads are calculated and can be used to analyze cooling
strategies, contaminant dilution and ventilation tactics. These include overall energy
requirements and fans, air coolers and scrubber/filter needs. VUMA can be used for
effective energy management and the creation of safe and healthy conditions in mines.

Verified engineering principles are used to accurately calculate and quantify the
relevant parameters. However, in mining environments, there are some inputs that are
difficult to quantify and rating categories have been developed for these inputs. For
example, categories are provided for: rock surface wetness, condition of pipe
insulation, diesel work cycles, moisture ratings of heat sources, in-stope water use and
others.
A ‘steady-state’ flow simulator calculates aerodynamic, thermodynamic and
contaminant dynamic [and tracking] properties. In underground environments,
‘transient-state’ simulations of these parameters are only important in particular
circumstances [for example power failures]. ‘Transient-state’ simulators form another
class of software and are available as separate stand-alone products.

Graphics facilities include 2-dimensional interface with panning and zooming used for
simple generation and management of network data and 3-dimensional graphics with
panning, zooming and rotating features for ease of visualizing and viewing the
networks.

Vuma can be bought on license or direct terms. Licensed purchases may be renewed
on a yearly basis while direct sales are not time limited. License purchases include a
user group membership as well as any further updates. The pricing structure for
international sales (outside South Africa) is as follows: Direct sale, $3400; Annual

ICAMPS -
Integrated
Computer
Aided
Mine
Planning
Software
Call 740-596-1023 Today!

ICAMPS MineVent
Mine Ventilation System Analysis
Software

The ICAMPS MineVent module uses expanded

versions of the Hardy Cross Method for calculations. It
also has a more robust second calculation engine called
the Gradient Method. As-mined and projected timing
maps serve as the basis for drawing to-scale mine
ventilation schematic diagrams. Using AutoCAD snap
features the planner designates nodes in the ventilation
network. Except for the atmospheric nodes, each node
must be assigned a unique number. The system
prevents duplicate node numbers.

The user connects the nodes with polylines which

represent the actual branch airway path. The branch
 must have a start node and end node but you can have
dummy nodes in between so that the actual branch path
is used and the branch length can be calculated for use
in the resistance formulas (see figure below). The
branch length can also be typed in manually when
calculating resistances. Each branch polyline has an
associated attribute block that contains airway
properties. Since the ventilation schematic is drawn to
scale, the system can automatically compute the branch
length and use the airway characteristics to calculate
the branch resistance. The system has many features
to simplify editing schematics and enhancing the
ventilation diagram. All changes to a schematic drawing
are stored permanently.

License $1800; Universities $3000 for multiple copies.

VENTGRAPH - software for mine ventilation engineers and experts

The VENGRAPH package is an integrated set of computer programs providing a Mine Ventilation
Engineer with efficient tools for solution of complex underground ventilation network problems. Apart
from conventional steady state analysis capabilities, the package contanis a unique fire simulator. The
packge affords us the means to:
 forecast the ventilation process for different variants of the designed solutions and perform regulation
to meet the requirements concerning the quantity and quality of air,
 perform case studies of unsteady ventilation phenomena, which may be particularly useful after
an occurrence of a fire or methane inflow to the mine workings,
 prepare the plan of personnel evacuation from the fire and gas hazard zones.
The concept of Ventilation Engineer Software System VENTGRAPH was developed in 1988 at the Mine
Ventilation Laboratory of the Institute. Since then several configurations of the professional ventilation
software package have been implemented in numerous mines, both during mine operation and
abandonement. What is more, it has been applied for educational purposes in Polish univeristies: AGH
University of Science and Technology in Kraków and Silesian Polytechnics. The applications abroad
include: universities and companies from the United States, Australia, Canada, Czech Republic , South
Africa and Vietnam. It is also used by the Mine Rescue Stations in Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia.
Proper and safe use of the package requires relevant expertise in Mine Ventilation and flow
measurements (pressure and air density survey, evaluation of aerodynamical resistances of workings,
fan performance curves e.t.c.). That is why that authors and authorized representatives recommend a
training and supervision of the preparation of the mine ventilation network model.
This system features:
 distinguished program blocs for realisation of the tasks concerning safe performance of mine
ventilation,
 graphic display of the computer calculations results,
 simulation of propagation of methane in steady and unsteady states,
 unique fire simulation module and
 optional cooperation with real time mine monitoring systems,
 optional simulation of filtrational flow in goaf.
VENTGRAPH Software Package comprises four program groups that realise the following tasks:
 preparation of input database (modules EDTXT, EDRYS, optional EDESC*),
 steady state calculation and analysis (GRAS module),
 simulation of unsteady states (modules FIRE, and still developed VentGoaf*),
 management of escape routes, operating in real time (optional ESCWIN* RealTime).
The basic VENTGRAPH package consists of the EDTXT, EDRYS, GRAS and FIRE modules
The Escape Routes Extension of basic version contains modules EDESC and ESCWIN
Hardware/software requirements
VENTGRAPH may be used on computers with Windows 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7, (both 32 and64
bit versions). One free USB port is required for a hardware protection key.