Published in Australia's Longwalls
Users of the mesh describe a raft of benefits, from the elimination of steel bars and reduction of worker exposure to risk at the Crinum longwall, to the reduction of roof bolting density during take-off at Tahmoor mine.
Gary Cambourne, longwall coordinator, Beltana, had this to say: “Having used Huesker mesh for a lot of years at South Bulga we found it exceptional in recovering our supports from under a sandstone roof. Here at Beltana we have just recovered our first longwall from under a coal roof and our experience tells us that for safety, efficiency, and peace of mind it certainly improves the longwall relocation process.”
Huesker was first introduced as a simple longwall mat by longwall consultant Chris Taylor in 1996. Since then, it has been developed by Nick Wills and Davie Hunter into a total “Recovery System” complete with purpose-designed installation accessories, installation procedures, crew training and supervision.
German manufacturer, Huesker, worked closely with Wills over the last eight years and now manufactures grids specifically designed for longwall applications. They combine very high strength with durability and elongation properties ideal for support recovery.
“The Huesker has definitely had a positive impact on longwall recovery times and overall safety during the recovery process,” said Jerry Bailey, longwall coordinator at Ulan Colliery
“There are two words that describe my feelings on Huesker: confidence and integrity.”
Wills, who designs each Huesker Recovery System, said safety was the number one priority, and because every take-off is different it is important that the design reflects the conditions on each longwall block.
The Huesker Recovery Systems are assembled by Hunter at a purpose-built site which incorporates a “runway” that can accommodate systems up to 400m in length.
“With over 240 successful relocations in Australia alone, NBW Mining will soon be exporting Huesker Systems into Europe, along with several other longwall technologies and systems devised here in Australia,” Wills said.
