Evaluate fundamental approaches to longwall dust control: Subprogram B, Practical aspects of deep cutting

Deep/slow cutting is one of the few changes that a longwall operator can make that will simultaneously reduce respirable dust, increase production and decrease power consumption. Though extensively employed in other countries, the technique has not seen widespread use in the United States. The objective of this research effort was to promote the use of deep/slow cutting by examination of the real and perceived constraints to its application. This report discusses the theoretical and experimental background of cutting with high pick penetration, the benefits to be obtained in terms of reduced dust make and specific energy consumption and the practical imparts of deeper cutting in terms of shearer performance and coal loading. Included in the report are literature references, results of surveys of equipment manufacturers and US longwall operations, results of laboratory and underground testing of deep/slow cutting and specific conclusions and recommendations for use of the technique. 9 figs. 1 tab.