LONGWALL MINING

This reference text covers longwall mining technology developed and practiced in the US during the last 30 years. It begins with a description of the technology and the special features about US longwalls including their requirements and constraints. It moves on to cover an array of topics including factors involved in a preliminary evaluation of longwall feasibility of a coal reserve; abutment pressures; methods for multiple entry development; two-leg shield support; shearer and automated plowsystems; coal transportation systems; ventilation requirements and practices, and methane and dust control; methods and equipment required for a face move; mine power distribution and system control; and surface subsidence and dewatering.