How to Properly Use and Replace Hogalat Catalysts in a Mine?

Among the "invisible killers" in mining operations, carbon monoxide (CO) ranks first. Hogalat catalyst is a targeted protective device that can catalyze toxic CO into non-toxic carbon dioxide at room temperature, providing core protection against CO in mines. Below, we analyze its use and replacement logic based on practical points and real-world cases.

Using hogalat catalyst in mines requires attention to three key aspects: First, compatibility: use the standard type in low-concentration CO areas, and select the highly active type in high-risk areas such as after blasting or spontaneous combustion of coal seams (CO concentration 1%-3%). Second, prevention of deactivation: it is susceptible to moisture and dust; when humidity > 85% or when coal dust is dense, it must be pre-treated with a drying layer and dust filter. Third, strong monitoring: check the airtightness before wearing a gas mask; if breathing resistance increases or the CO detector alarms during operation, evacuate immediately.

Replacement procedures must be tailored to mine operations: Personal air filters must be used within 24 hours of opening and replaced after 8 consecutive hours. During replacement, evacuate to a safe area and re-inspect the seal immediately after replacement. Fixed purification devices must be replaced every 15-30 days. Before disassembly, ventilate to reduce CO to a safe level, purge the bed, and evenly fill with new agent to avoid gaps that could cause short circuits.

Standardized operation is crucial for survival: In 2023, after a blast in a small coal mine in Henan, three workers used air filters that had been in continuous use for 9 hours to clean the tunnel, and no damage to the gasket's sealing ring was found. They subsequently fell unconscious 30 minutes later and were hospitalized for two weeks after rescue. Meanwhile, in a large coal mine in Shanxi, strict regulations were implemented in the spontaneous combustion area: fixed devices were replaced with highly active catalysts every 15 days, along with dust drying devices; personnel air filters were checked before starting work and rotated every 4 hours. For five years, the outlet CO concentration has remained consistently below 15 ppm, achieving zero poisoning.

In summary, the replacement procedure for hogalat must adhere to the principles of "timely, sealed, and compatible" to ensure proper use and solidify the mine's safety defenses.

Author: Hazel 

Date: 2025-11-14