Why should line curtain be kept close to the face?

Why should line curtain be kept close to the face?

• A. To reduce noise
• B. To keep methane removed from the face
• C. To keep coal dust removed from the face
• D. To improve visibility

Answer: (B)

Directing methane away from the face is the key purpose of the line curtain. By keeping it close to the face, the curtain creates a barrier that channels methane-laden air into the main ventilation stream, ensuring faster capture, dilution, and removal before the gas can accumulate where workers are breathing. This minimizes the methane concentration around the face, reducing ignition and explosion hazards. While improved airflow can help visibility to some extent, the primary function is gas control, not noise reduction or dust removal, with the latter being managed by other ventilation or housekeeping measures.

Directing methane away from the face is the key purpose of the line curtain. By keeping it close to the face, the curtain creates a barrier that channels methane-laden air into the main ventilation stream, ensuring faster capture, dilution, and removal before the gas can accumulate where workers are breathing. This minimizes the methane concentration around the face, reducing ignition and explosion hazards. While improved airflow can help visibility to some extent, the primary function is gas control, not noise reduction or dust removal, with the latter being managed by other ventilation or housekeeping measures.