Other than the shearer and shields, the Bowen Basin mine ordered two sets of equipment earlier this year for the Oaky No 1 thin seam operation. The mine is relocating to the south-east extension, opening up around 80Mt of in situ reserves.

The seam height is 1.6m-2.5m. at a width of around 305m, with plans to extend to 350m. The equipment has been engineered from the outset with sufficient power and strength to accommodate this extension.

Included in the order are two complete mono-rails, two conveyors, two electrical systems and two pumps and sub-stations, which will allow the mine to pre-install major services well in advance of longwall changeout. The two sets of pumps and sub-stations will enable the mine to improve its servicing of cut-throughs through pre-installation of the second set in each new cut-through. Time savings in excess of a shift length are expected per retraction, compared to having one set of equipment.

The 178 DBT shields are 1.4m-2.75m, with 1040 tonne capacity, controlled by a PM4 control system. The package includes ten gate shields and three shields configured for the E-frame which will be used to assist with longwall recovery.

The German-made sub-components of the AFC, including drive-frames, gearboxes and chain assembly, are currently being shipped to the Rooty Hill factory. These will then be assembled into main and tailgate components and mated to the locally made BSL. The BSL and mono-rail will be delivered directly to site.

The AFC, shields and shearer will meanwhile undergo compatibility in the newly expanded Mackay factory in November/December this year, effectively splitting the compatibility into two separate processes. This will be the third time DBT has not undertaken an on-site mini-build, saving the customer several hundred thousand dollars and several weeks delivery, according to a DBT spokesperson.

In addition, MIM will be able to train personnel on the equipment at the Mackay facility, away from the hazards and production pressure of a working longwall face.