Optimization of coal output by increasing the steepness of the lignite slope in the rim slope system of the Hambach opencast mine

摘要

In order to improve exploitation of the deposit, RWE Power has developed an aligned process engineering and geomechanical concept for increasing the angle of the lignite slope in the rim slope of the Hambach mine from 1 : 1.5 to 1 :1. The project involving a step-by-step increase in the steepness of the lignite slope is supported by practical and theoretical process (equipment scheduling), surveying (deformation control) and geomechanical (stability and deformation) investigations. The extraction of additional lignite enhance the overburden-to-lignite-ratio and the economic efficiency of the mine while, at the same time, ensuring sufficient stability. Practical implementation has been promising so far.