Continuous Miner in Underground Mining: Working, Parts & Production | Indian Minerology

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Continuous Miner in Underground Mining: Working, Parts & Production

Continuous Miner in Underground Mining: Working, Parts & Production | Indian Minerology

Continuous miner is a highly productive underground mining machine used mainly in coal and soft rock mines. It cuts, loads, and transports material continuously.

What is a Continuous Miner?

A continuous miner is an electrically powered machine that uses a rotating cutting drum to excavate material without drilling and blasting.

Main Parts of Continuous Miner

  • Cutting Drum
  • Gathering Arms
  • Conveyor System
  • Electric Motors
  • Hydraulic System
  • Crawler Tracks

Working Principle

  1. Cutting drum breaks coal/rock
  2. Gathering arms collect material
  3. Material transfers to conveyor
  4. Discharged into shuttle car or conveyor belt

Production of Continuous Miner

Production depends on seam thickness, rock hardness, and system efficiency.

Typical Production

  • Coal: 15–30 tonnes/minute
  • Highly mechanized panels: Higher output

Advantages

  • No drilling & blasting
  • High productivity
  • Continuous operation
  • Reduced manpower

Limitations

  • Not suitable for hard rock
  • High capital cost
  • Ventilation requirement

Safety Considerations

  • Proper ventilation
  • Gas monitoring
  • Roof support system
  • Trained operators

Continuous Miner vs Drill & Blast

Continuous miner offers higher productivity and safety compared to conventional methods.

FAQs

Q1. Where is continuous miner used?

Mainly in underground coal mines.

Q2. Is it suitable for Indian mines?

Yes, widely used in mechanized underground coal mining.

Conclusion

Continuous miner technology has transformed underground mining with safer and faster production.

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