Sublevel Caving by Pillar Extraction. Final Report.

摘要

The design and feasibility analysis of the Sublevel Caving by Pillar Extraction mining method are described. It is a conceptual mining method devised toward the objective of improving mining techniques for extraction of deep coal occurring in seams of thicknesses greater than 12feet. The concept envisions that advance openings of the mine will be driven along the bottom of the thick seam with top coal being extracted incrementally during retreat mining,or in ''falls'',shot down from the roof. Loading of fallen top coal will be accomplished with the loading machine operator remaining in a protected position. The conclusions of the study are that the Sublevel Caving by Pillar Extraction mining method is suitable for test application in a working coal mine in the immediate future:that it offers improvement in resouce recovery,competitive productivity,and improvement in health and safety for mine personnel over previous thick seam underground methods. Analysis of the economic performance indicates a price of $13.22per ton to sustain 15% return on investment for 20years. (ERA citation 04:028887)