Figure opposite shows a general layout of punch longwall mining. The aim of this method is to mine coal form the highwall of an open cut operation, in which the stripping ratio is far outweighs the production cost of coal mined. The method consists of driving a set of headings […]

Longwall Topcoal Caving (TCC) is a method of extraction for underground mining of thick seams. It uses a longwall set-up and natural forces to aid in the winning of coal. With this method of extraction only a single longwall is developed at the foot of the seam. The control of […]

The predominant method of longwall mining in Australia is longwall retreat system. In retreat longwall mining, two sets of entries are driven between 100 to 250m apart. When the entries have been driven a predetermined length, say two kilometres, they are connected and a rectangular longwall block is outlined. The […]

An alternative method of mining is advance longwall mining. In longwall advancing, the longwall face is set up a short distance from the main development headings. The gate entries of the longwall face are formed as the coal is mined. The gate roadways are thus formed adjacent to the goaf. […]

Period January 2011 – December 2011 Prepared by: Ken Cram & Carol Mische, Coal Services Pty Limited – Febuary 2012 Raw Coal Production (tonnes) Mine State Longwall Other Total Notes Angus Place NSW 3,182,700 195,700 3,378,400 Appin NSW 2,516,600 483,700 3,000,400 Ashton NSW 1,283,000 431,100 1,714,100 Austar NSW 1695.400 218,200 […]

n longwall mining, large rectangular blocks of coal are defined during the development stage of the mine and are then extracted in a single continuous operation. Generally each defined block of coal, know as a panel, is created by driving a set of headings from main or trunk roadways in […]