Improving the flow of coal from underground mines
Abstract
In most coal mines the conveyor systems are sized around the peak delivery rate from the longwall face. With the increasing depth of the mining operations and the extent of the underground conveyor networks, this often means a great deal of over capitalisation. At the Mandalong Mine, an interseam bins was incorporated, with the result that surge capacity in the main conveyor trunk system could be avoided. The bin has the capacity to feed through either of two expanded flow legs to either of two trunk conveyor systems feeding power stations. The bin is of the transition flow style, not normally the practice for underground coal, with the volume completely clearing during outloading; thus maximising the live surge capacity. The bin was fabricated in a completely modular style and then transported underground for assembly.
Author
Morrison, D.J.
Materials Handling Manager, Sinclair Knight Merz, Australia