On application of the KSM-type continuous surface miners in developing the North-West section of the Elga coal deposit

The paper presents the results of research that aims to increase the cost efficiency of the Elga open pit mine, which develops a coal deposit of the same name located in the permafrost zone, by introducing the continuous flow process technology with the use of surface miners that allow selective excavation of rock seams and plies, thereby reducing their dilution, instead of the cyclic method based on drilling and blasting operations. Illustrations and detailed information are provided on the physical, geographical and geological features of the field site, the degree of its exploration, the geological structure, reserves, climatic, geocryological and mining conditions of the deposit, physical and mechanical properties of the overburden rocks and coals, a technological scheme of the mining operations at the strip mine. The key mining and geological indicators of the NorthWest section of the developed deposit are given; and the technical capacity of the proposed surface miner is defined. Estimated qualitative indicators of coal production are presented in the graphic form, including the losses, dilution and ash content at the bulk and selective mining of individual seams. It is emphasized that the highest rates of losses and dilution of the mined coal are observed when mining a seam with the most complex structure. The obtained results will allow to justify the optimal technological parameters to apply the continuous flow process technology based on application of the KSM-type surface miners when developing complex seams in different areas of the Elga deposit, which will ultimately increase the cost efficiency of the mining company. Based on the performed researches, a conclusion is made on the efficiency of using surface miners for development of the deposit.