underground coal mines - North American Mining Magazine

Going direct: Gearless drive technology in mining conveyors

February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 Jonathan Rowland

A 2.5 m dia. drive pulley for the Chuquicamata project. The pulley, both pulley bearings, both brake discs, and the membrane coupling hub are visible. Photo: TAKRAF Group

From underground coal mines in 1980s Germany to some of the world’s highest-altitude conveyor systems in the deserts of South America today, gearless drive technology is transforming how mining operations move material. by Jonathan Rowland “Gearless drive systems were first used in various industrial applications long before they were considered a viable alternative to conventional conveyor drive concepts with gearboxes,”…

Kentucky legislation can weaken coal miner protections

April 3, 2024July 30, 2024 NAM Staff

The Kentucky House of Representatives passed a bill on March 11 that would reduce the number of required mine emergency technicians (METs) on a shift from two to one for underground coal mines with 15 or fewer miners working at a time, reported local media. Rep. Bill Wesley (R-Ravenna), who sponsored House Bill 85, said that by letting smaller mining…

Heading Underground with J. H. Fletcher’s Ben Hardman

September 13, 2023September 13, 2023 Donna Schmidt

If you work in coal, especially at one of the country’s many underground coal mines, the name Ben Hardman is likely a familiar one. In this issue’s executive Q&A, we talk to the VP about his industry history, the outlook for automation and his views on the coal industry. Edited by Donna Schmidt NAM: How did you get your start…