Abstract
This report describes the engineering feasibility and economic advantage of using a steep-angle conveyance (sac) system in conjunction with medium and large draglines to transport spoil in a typical western coal mine. The sac system, including a receiving hopper, a steep-angle conveyor, and a stacker-spreader, is capable of processing overburden material at the rate of 7,000 tons per hour. The unique feature of this system is the steep-angle conveyor that transports the overburden material from the pit bottom to the top of the spoil at angles up to 45 degrees. Compared with other means of cross-pit conveyance considered during this study, the sac system offers the advantage of easier operation, lower cost, and greater mobility. The results of the study show that integration of the sac system into both established and planned new mines would improve the overall mining operation, expand the operating capability of existing equipment, and reduce mining and reclamation costs.
