The notable improvements in the mining industry is underground control improvements and larger surface mines. From1983 through 2003 these types of improvemetns have included:
· Bigger and stronger longwall face coal belt conveyors
· Conversion to belt conveyors to move coal out of underground mines
· Better roof bolting equipment including combination continuous-miner/bolters
· More powerful and durable longwall cutting bits
· Better sensors for and automation of longwall roof shields
· More powerful and more durable electric drive motors used in many applications
· Continuous scale-up of haul trucks, loaders, and excavators for surface mining
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