RAG Anthrazit Ibbenbüren placed the order for a second system based on the productive performance of the first Cat GH800B system, according to Caterpillar.

Ibbenbüren installed the first GH800B system in late 2013, and it has been effectively working in heights of 0.8 to 1.2m. The new system is scheduled to start producing in July on a 220m face.

New system components include the Cat GH800B automated plough system and Cat AFC PF4 armoured face conveyor, which are manufactured in the Caterpillar longwall products facilities in Lünen, Germany.

The longwall team in Lünen worked closely with Ibbenbüren to design and construct the GH800B system for the challenging conditions. A key to good longwall performance in Ibbenbüren is the highly effective controllability of the plough system, even in very soft floor conditions.

The new system also includes a shock absorber, an elastomer coupling in the plough pulling sledge to reduce peak loads on the plough system – chain, plough connectors and drives. The effect is smoother plough operation and extended service life of components.

RAG, the mining company, has retrofitted its older plough systems with shock absorbers.

As with the first G800B system, Cat automation of the complete plough longwall as well as remote control of all functions and adjustments enables high production, enhances safety and minimizes operating cost.

At Ibbenbüren mine, all underground production operations are controlled from a central control station on the surface. In 2015 Ibbenbüren is going to produce 1.63 million tonnes of high quality anthracite from its longwall systems working 1 300m below the surface.

The Cat dealer in Germany, Zeppelin Baumaschinen, will provide product support services as it has for the first system.