Longwall mining is used purely for mining coal underground. It is one of the most effective methods for mining coal. In fact, 80% of coal is gained, much higher than other methods.

 

Vocabulary-

Panel- Coal shaped into rectangular shapes. They are as wide and long depending on the machine.  

Goff- The back of the longwall cavity. 

 

Process- 

A vast wall of coal is where the mining occurs. The length of the wall can range from 820-1,312 feet. The coal is cut in one complete slice. This makes panels, which vary in size. They can range from a mile or two in width, and the length of the panel is the same as the original length size. During the process of the panels being but, hydraulic-powered supports steady the roof from collapsing. Afterwards the panel has been cut and removed, the roof is released and collapses. The coal blocks are then removed by conveyor belts.