Importance and Selection Criteria of Plows Used in Coal Mining

Since renewable energy sources cannot supply the world s energy needs, fossil fuels are still the main energy source nowadays. 41% of the world’s electric production is obtained from coal. There is no doubt that coal will not lose its leadership in energy production in the coming years. Because of this great demand, which is now an elimination for the energy needs of the countries, full-scale excavation systems are getting widespread. In addition, mine mechanization and automation systems have contributed to increasing ore production, thus reducing unit production costs and improving work safety. Today, drum shearers and plows are preferred machines in underground- mechanized coal mining. Since thick seam coal mines are going to run out, coal mining will soon return to thin seam mining. For this reason, the role of plows in the production of thin coal seams will increase gradually. In this study, the historical development of the plows used in coal excavation was first explained. Later, information was given on the usage areas of plows, differences compared to drum cutters and producer companies and their plows in the world. Finally, assessments were made on the use of plows in our country.