The new AFC’s will benefit the mines through improved availability, reduced maintenance and consequently, increased production. Both systems have been designed to handle the mines peak production rates of 1800 tonnes per hour.

Centennial ordered almost identical AFC’s, the only differences being in the clevis area to suit the different shield types at the two mines. The order has resulted in a lower purchase cost per unit and will lead to a future reduction in operating costs upon installation during financial year 2004.

The Angus Place conveyor, which will be delivered in December this year, comprises a 255 metre face of PF4/2000 1032mm wide pans, fitted with Jumbotrac 2000 Shearer haulage and spill trays.

The drive frames are fitted with Class 45 CSTs and the mines free issue electric motors. The AFC chain is a twin 42mm X 146mm assembly.

The BSL is a PF4/2000 1332mm assembly driven by a new 250kW Morley electric motor. The BSL chain is a twin midboard 34mm X 126mm assembly.

The Crusher is a DBT SK11/14 impact unit driven by a new 250kW Morley electric motor. The DBT Bootend is a fixed skid type unit with side walking to suit a 1200mm belt.

The Springvale Conveyor order also comprises a 255 metre face similar to the new Angus Place Conveyor, however with a few changes including power supply from two new 630kW Morley Motors. DBT will also be supplying new BSL components in-bye the crusher.

The Springvale equipment is due for delivery later in the year with a further delivery of a 50 metre face extension in mid 2004.

DBT market development corporate manager Tim Clarke said DBT was the successful tender because of their market acceptance in Australia.

“DBT's CST technology is the preferred method of AFC soft start/load sharing with Australia's Longwall operators,” Clarke said.

“This system coupled with DBT's well proven conveyor design and effective service and after sales support convinced Centennial that DBT could offer them the system availability and performance they were looking for.”

The AFC pans, drive frames, chains, flights, haulage systems, crusher and boot end will all be manufactured in Germany. The spill trays, drive base plates, clevis brackets, stageloader pans will all be made and assembled in Rooty Hill.

Angus Place and Springvale general manager Bob Miller said Centennial was now looking at developing specifications on a longwall roof support system for Angus Place scheduled for late 2005, as well as an extension to the existing face at Springvale sometime during 2005.

Centennial said it is continuing to evaluate and upgrade equipment and systems, which will lead to future cost benefits.