The first of four AFC/BSL systems ordered for the McElroy Mine in West Virginia have been delivered for installation in summer 2002.

The first system comprises an AFC rated at 3,500 tons per hour capacity with 3,000 installed HP; Pan Line at 1,000 mm raceway designed for a 1,100 ft. face length with 400 ton pan connectors and includes Longwall Associates signature Super Gear Rack Haulage System; and BSL rated at 4,000+ tons per hour.

During the May compatibility, considerable pre-hosing was performed on the BSL system at Longwall Associates manufacturing facility.

Pre-hosing at the manufacture facility provides advantages as the components are hosed in an environment away from laborious underground conditions and the pressures associated with underground set-up/ installation.Additionally, having the BSL hosed prior to installation reduces set-up time and costs and allows the operator to focus on other aspects of the installation, Longwall Associates said.