The new equipment is part of an $A18 million longwall system replacement that will enable the mine to operate with best practice technology and fit- for- purpose equipment.

The BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance mine opted to purchase the new longwall system to match the challenges of application at Broadmeadow. The mine has operated longwall blocks 1 and 2 with some used equipment from the former Kenmare mine.

With the completion of longwall block 2, happening at the time of print, Broadmeadow will install the new equipment on longwall block 3 which is 200m wide. The new equipment will feature two AFC drives and a 48mm chain, with AFC capacity at around 3000 tonnes per hour.

The new equipment marks a number of Australian firsts. The DBT Class 65 CSTs with 1200kW motors are the first of their type to be installed in Australia. Also for the first time, DBT’s Powerchain will be installed on the BSL.

DBT has specifically developed the Powerchain for higher-capacity face conveyors on longer faces and the BSL application will provide a lower risk testing ground before an AFC application is considered.

The new monorail system will make up an important part of the new look Broadmeadow with increased traction and braking capabilities to better cope with the roadway grades.

The next stage for Broadmeadow will be to widen the face from 200m out to 320m. More equipment – specifically the DBT roof supports and an extension for the AFC – is currently being manufactured in Germany. This equipment is due to arrive in Australia at the end of November.

The face extension equipment will be installed in early 2008 on longwall block 4. Longwall 4 will be the first of the extended width blocks at 320m. Broadmeadow is currently studying options to increase the face width even further from Longwall 7.

Watch out for the September edition of Australian Longwall Magazine for more details on this story.