Linear Cutting Concept Improves Health and Safety for Miners

Research results by the Bureau of Mines are presented for a major of effort addressing a long term solution to problems associated with health and safety aspects of rotary drum mining machines. Proof-of-concept testing for the Bureau's Constant Depth Linear Cutting concept is described. The concept uses a triangular drum, mounted on an eccentric arm, cutting to a free face at low rpm. Preliminary comparative test results, for synthetic coal, between the linear cutting concept and a standard rotary drum show the linear cutting concept reduces entrained respirable dust by more than 95 pct, reduces -1/4-in-mesh product by more than 50 pct and, reduces horsepower by approximately 70 pct. These results are used to calculate the power requirements for a new, all diesel mining system to improve both miner health and safety, and productivity while reducing costs.