The mine is located in the southern part of the Kuznetsk Coal Basin, which hosts coal reserves of 160 billion tonnes.

Extremely difficult mining conditions with increasingly thin seams at greater depths meant JKBU was reaching the limit of what could be achieved with shearer technology, despite the use of a special low-profile shearer.

JKBU was looking for a solution to increase productivity and raise the quality of the coal while at the same time improving working conditions for miners. The company selected a modern DBT plow system as the solution.

German manufacturer, DBT will supply a 300m-Gleithobel plow longwall for a seam height of 1.35-1.75m, including shield supports, power supply and a state-of-the-art control system.

“Productivity is enhanced by high rates of advance, maximum power for cutting (up to 2 x 400kW), rapid cutting height adjustment, and the ability to carry out maintenance during operation,” DBT said.

The order includes face conveyors, CST drives, stageloaders and feeder breakers. When delivered in May 2005 it will be Russia’s most modern plow system.