Komatsu recently revealed that it placed an advanced longwall automation system at Arch Resources’ Leer mine in northern West Virginia.
Komatsu’s Personal Proximity Detection system, designed to detect and monitor the location of operators on the longwall face, is part of the producer’s mission for zero harm and to increase productivity.
The OEM said the system additionally enables Leer’s Roof Support Surface Control feature that opens a secure remote connection from a surface PC to the roof support control system to manage the roof supports or initiate automated functions from the surface of the mine, which reduces operator exposure to dust by placing them in a safer location while helping increase productivity and reduce downtime.
The proximity system can prevent the movement of an advancing shield if an object is detected. Full integration into the Faceboss Control System eliminates the need for additional fixed components.
Arch’s Leer mine, located in Grafton, produces a met high-vol A product. Its production in 2019 was 3.7 million tons.
Arch also owns the Beckley, Leer South, Mountain Laurel, Black thunder, Coal Creek and West Elk coal operations.
Sources: Komatsu Mining and Arch Resources