Tunnel Ridge operators embrace the benefits of automated longwall mining
One of the most productive U.S. longwall mines, Alliance Resource Partners’ Tunnel Ridge mine, operates in northern West Virginia. Initially developed in 2009, they began longwall mining in May 2012, so it’s a relatively new longwall mine. It’s one of Alliance’s eight active mining operations, stretching from southern Illinois to Maryland.
Altogether, Tunnel Rudge has 9,400 acres of Pittsburgh No. 8 coal in Ohio County, West Virginia and Washington County, Pennsylvania. The seam height ranges from 78 inches to 92 inches. The operation has a reserve life of more than 25 years operating one longwall and three continuous miner development units.
