July 2015
|
World Coal
|
19
ADAPTING TO
STRAITENED
TIMES
JonathanRowland
discusses developments
in longwall mining with
representatives from
longwall OEMs,
Joy Global and
Eickhoff, and ground
control specialists,
Jennmar.
C
oal mining operations are facing huge cost pressures as the long
slump in prices of both thermal and metallurgical coal shows little
sign of ending – and longwall mines are no exception.
“Decreased demand for coal, with the accompanying reduction
in coal prices, forces a mine operator to focus on reducing operational costs,”
explained Jim Haughey, Global Product Manager for Shearers/AFC at
Joy Global. “The reduction of operating costs through staff reductions and
reduced equipment maintenance results in fewer personnel to operate and
maintain longwall equipment and increased intervals between maintenance.”
