Tunnelbelüftung

Tunnelbelüftung refers to the system of ventilation used in tunnels to ensure air quality and safety. Its primary purpose is to remove pollutants, such as exhaust gases from vehicles, and to supply fresh air to the tunnel environment. This is crucial for the health and comfort of tunnel users, as well as for visibility and the prevention of fire hazards.

There are several types of tunnel ventilation systems. Natural ventilation relies on the natural movement of air due to pressure differences caused by factors like wind and temperature variations. However, this method is often insufficient for long or heavily trafficked tunnels. Mechanical ventilation systems use fans to actively control airflow. Longitudinal ventilation, a common type, uses jet fans installed along the tunnel ceiling to push air in one direction, either pushing out polluted air or supplying fresh air. Transverse ventilation involves ducts along the tunnel walls or ceiling that either supply fresh air or extract polluted air from multiple points. Semi-transverse systems combine aspects of both longitudinal and transverse ventilation.

The design of a tunnel ventilation system depends on various factors, including tunnel length, traffic volume, tunnel gradient, and the presence of emergency exits. Smoke control during a fire is a critical aspect of tunnel ventilation, aiming to keep escape routes clear of smoke and heat. This often involves carefully managed airflow to direct smoke away from occupied areas. Regular inspection and maintenance of these systems are essential to guarantee their effective operation.