Shearer Wall Mining
Shearer wall mining, also referred to as continuous wall mining, is a method of coal mining utilizing a shearer mounted on an integral boom structure that advances along the coal face. Although there have been numerous developments over the years, the fundamental principles remains the same, A rotating cutting drum is used to cut and shear the coal from the wall of the coal seam with the excavated material being discharged onto a conveyor located on the rear of the machine.
Theoretically, the shearer wall mining system is a continuous operation, removing coal along the entire face. Each pass of the shearer advances along the face at a rate of approximately 5-10 meters. The rate of production is dependent on the coal seam width and other parameters of the system.
The shearer is designed to contain a steel drum equipped with picks. The picks cut into the coal seam, which is then sheared from the wall. This process continues until the entire seam is removed. The undercut coal is then removed by a plow system located behind the shearer. The material is then discharged onto a conveyor located on the rear of the machine.
The procedure of shearer wall mining can be simplified as follows: The shearer drags along the conveyor, which is supported by the haulage system, thus the shearer advances through the coal seam. As it advances the picks on the steel drum cut the coal. Once the coal is cut and sheared it is loaded onto the conveyor by a series of supports and pushed onto the rear of the shearer. The material is discharged onto the conveyor and removed to the dump site.
The shearer wall mining system can be used in both underground and surface mining applications. It is applicable for seams that are too thick for ploughs and too thin for longwall mining systems.
The machines used for shearer wall mining are designed in two types: machine cut walling and formed walling. Machine cut walling utilizes a series of steel cutting drums mounted on the machine, while formed walling relies on forming the wall with a plough.
Shearer wall mining is a reliable method of mining, especially when used in conditions of thick seams and high productivity areas. It allows the mining of coal to be done with fewer costs compared to the other methods of mining. Moreover, it increases safety in the workplace by eliminating the need for miners to enter the mine, thereby reducing the risk of inhaling hazardous gases and dust particles. Additionally, the productivity of shearer wall mining is also improved as the production rate is three times higher than other conventional methods.
In conclusion, shearer wall mining is a reliable and efficient method of coal extraction. It offers many advantages over conventional methods of coal extraction. It is relatively safe, improves productivity and lowers cost of production. It is a widely used method of coal extraction in many parts of the world and will continue to be a key player in the coal extraction industry for many years to come.
