HOW COAL IS PRODUCEDExtraction/ Processing/ Transporting
There are two types of coal extraction processes: surface mining and sub-surface/underground mining. Surface mining occurs when the coal is closer to the surface (under 125 feet) and accounts for two thirds of the United State's coal mining industry. In this process, topsoil is removed and draglines strip away the overburden to reach the coal. The topsoil is then put back into the area after the coal is extracted. This process is cheaper than sub-surface mining. Sub-surface mining occurs when the coal is deeper than 125 feet. This process has includes elevators and shafts deeps within the ground. There are three types of underground mining, which depends on the location of the coal. These include the following: Types of Mining Surface Mining: Open-pit Strip Mountaintop removal Sub-surface Mining: Longwall Room- and- Pillar Drift Mines This occurs when coal is mined horizontally within the reserve. Slope mines This occurs when the coal seam is close to the surface, but the use of tunnels and underground cars are present to get to the coal for profit. Shaft mines This is the deepest mining. Large holes are drilled straight down into the coal seam. Miners use elevators to reach the the coal. Once coal is extracted, it is moved on a conveyor belt within the site to be washed and to remove any unwanted dirt and chemicals, such as sulfur. Through this conveyor belt, the coal is moved to the necessary location for users to use. |