Joy said the current generation of 12CM Bolter Miner is an exceptionally flexible mining machine. Features include flexibility in mining height, mining width, gathering head type, and bolter packager. The addition of the new BAS concept to the machine will deliver a step change to the concept of the bolter miner, according to Joy technical director, Brad Neilson.

"A major factor in bolter mining is the proximity of the last row of roofbolts to the coalface. Reduced distance means there is less opportunity for the roof rock mass to fail," Neilson said. "Reinforcing the rock mass as quickly as possible after mining, and as close to the face as possible can mean a reduction in the overall cost of roof support, a more stable opening, and a safer, more productive environment."

Joy estimates coal clearance rates improve by a minimum of 20% with a 50% reduction in operating cost.

The BAS concept advances the gathering head/bolter assembly toward the cutter head. In the past, the East West Conveyor or a plow type shovel was used to reduce the distance from the uncut coal face to the centreline of the last installed roofbolt.

The use of the Joy Centrifugal Loading Arm (CLA) gathering head was successful in increasing load out rate and reliability but the CLA configuration did not allow optimisation of bolt to face distance.

The development of the BAS offers users the best of both worlds - a CLA gathering head and an unprecedented improvement in bolt to face distances. BAS was also developed to set a new benchmark for roofbolter operator space, ergonomics and safety, the company said.

"The BAS mechanism to advance and retract the gathering head is a very simple pivot and cylinder arrangement. No sliding bars to wear out, and a very simple, robust structure advances and retracts the complete conveyor system on the miner."