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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Continuous mining apparatus and method

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5779419

A continuous mining apparatus and method for the underground mining of coal. The continuous mining apparatus includes a cutter assembly, conveyor assembly and base assembly. The base assembly is adapted to be maintained in a stationary position during a cutting operation. The cutter assembly is adapted to be projected outwardly from the stationary base assembly into the seam of coal for a substantial distance on the order of 80-100 feet. The conveyor assembly is positioned between the cutter assembly and the base assembly and, with the aid of telescoping members, provides two functions. First, the conveyor assembly provides for a variable length conveyor between the cutter assembly and the base assembly permitting the cutter assembly to project outwardly from the base assembly for varying distances of up to 80-100 feet. Second, the conveyor assembly serves as a means to crowd the cutter assembly into the coal seam without movement of the base assembly. The method of mining of this invention provides method steps for the continuous mining of coal from seams.

Assignee:
IFI; EDB-82-063824
Patent Number(s):
US 4312540
OSTI ID:
5779419
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English