Special reports

Lyn Bates, Ajax Equipment Ltd, UK, explains how companies can improve the discharge of coal from hoppers and bins.

A simple scripted solution applying HARP modelling adds value to the overall mine planning process at the Glendell coal mine.

Larry Atkinson, Joy Global, USA, details the advancements in conveyor drive and control technologies and increased idler capacities that have led belt conveyors to achieve record production levels.

The Ukrainian coal industry was once seen as a path away from dependence on Russian gas imports. But following the conflict in Dontesk and Lugnask, the outlook for the industry is bleak.

With the mining industry in the midst of a slump, the case for innovation has never been more compelling.

Chris Rehmann, AESSEAL Inc, looks at how the latest advances in double mechanical seals and tank systems can significantly reduce a mine’s water footprint.

Bill Raney, President of West Virginia Coal Association, details an outlook on Obama’s Clean Power Plan and how it will affect coal mining in West Virginia.

Anglo American has worked with Rhodes University’s Institute for Environmental Biotechnology to develop a technique that minimises disruption to local communities when mines are rehabilitated and restored: Fungcoal.

For an industry struggling with low prices, higher demand from India and southeast Asia could be just what the doctor ordered.

Much has been written about the agreement between the Mongolian government and Rio Tinto over development of the Oyu Tolgo copper deposit. But much more must be done if investor confidence in the country is to be restored and the country’s mining industry developed.

Enforcement and liability risk reduction tips and knowledge to keep your company at low risk of adverse DOL/MSHA/OSHA actions.

Despite the wind industry’s job-creation claims, the impact of the EPA regulation of coal-fired power plants will result in far more job losses.

With high electricity costs holding back economic growth, Italy would benefit from expending its use of coal.

Given the current ultralow share prices of US coal companies, the time may be ripe for industry consolidation.

Coal's decline in the US culminated in it losing its market-leading roll in April to natural gas. But elsewhere, the fuel is still going strong.