Evaluate fundamental approaches to longwall dust control: Subprogram D, Longwall automation technology

The use of automated equipment on longwall faces can offer significant benefits by the dust exposures of face personnel can be reduced by removing them from areas of high dust concentrations. While the advantages are clear, and sufficiently mature, and developments have been commercially available, the application of automated systems on US longwalls has met with limited success. The objective of this subprogram was to determine the engineering and economic restraints on the implementation and acceptance of longwall automation technology and to study the potential dust control benefits offered by the technology. Two of the more highly developed automation techniques were chosen for detailed investigation: automated shield advance and shearer remote control. This report discusses the manufacturer surveys, mining company surveys and underground evaluations conducted as part of this effort. Specific conclusions and recommendations are offered regarding the use of the techniques. 4 figs., 5 tabs.