FYI... From the September 2009 edition of The Coal News

PAGE 8 > What’s New in Longwall Mining
http://www.coalnews.net/images/pdf/CoalNews_0909.pdf

Excerpt:

Communication systems are important. Non-mining industries have led the way in communications, but regulations have now prompted suitable applications at mines. While wireless technology is non-existent as a standalone, minewide monitoring is common, and enhanced voice communication is progressing at a rapid rate. All of these systems can be integrated to work together. In modern systems, face moves are all in a network with all miners able to speak to each other. Thus, move time can be reduced up to 20%. Critical skills become more available as there is no need to hunt for people with critical skills, and an expert in a remote location can advise anyone anywhere. In an emergency, response is rapid, and when help is needed you know who is where and miners are therefore safer.

RFID tags can be used to locate supplies and equipment. Every supply car can be identified and every transportation vehicle can be located. It is also now possible to monitor critical functions. AFC loads can be balanced and ontrolled, and pressures can be monitored and regulated. Critical shield loads can be instantly reported and monitored vibration can be used to prevent failure. Plow faces can be automated and shearer face automation is near.

PAGE 10 > Communication and Tracking Performance Update
http://www.coalnews.net/images/pdf/CoalNews_0909.pdf

PAGES 29, 35, & 36 > Advertisements from some of ACT's competitors
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