Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for dispersing rock dust within a mine tunnel. The present invention is particularly useful for rock dusting coal mines. A quantity of rock dust is dispersed evenly over the conveyor system which runs through the area of the mine which requires dusting. The apparatus of the present invention comprises a wheeled vehicle having a diesel engine which drives the vehicle. In addition, the diesel engine drives a blower or fan. The vehicle of the present invention is adapted to run along the conveyor system within the mine. As a result, the vehicle runs over the rock dust which is dispersed on the conveyor belt. As the vehicle passes over the rock dust the fan which is associated with the vehicle blows into the rock dust causing the rock dust to disperse from the conveyor belt and to coat the associated interior tunnel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for protecting ignitor probes used to ignite coal-fired furnaces, such as those used in coal-fired electric generation plants. The invention involves introducing a compressed gas such as compressed air or other inert gas into the ignitor support tube. The gas passes down the support tube and then exits just above the ignitor probe. The gas then passes over the ignitor probe and out into the furnace. The gas protects the probe by insulating it from the environment of the furnace, thus keeping it cool and free from combustion waste products.