Coal news and updates

China Develops Powerful Machine for Mining Ultra-Thin Coal Beds

China has successfully developed a powerful coal seam shearer that can extract ultra-thin coal beds, achieving record output levels. The machine, developed by the Shanghai Research Institute of China Coal Technology and Engineering Group Corporation (CCTEG), can be used on coal beds as thin as 1.3 meters. More than 70 of these machines have been deployed by major coal mining companies in mainland China.

At a mine run by China’s National Energy Group, the device achieved an unprecedented annual output of 2.6 million tonnes. The coal seam shearer has a designed annual capacity of 3 million tonnes, three times higher than similar machines. It is also more powerful, with an installed power of 1,200 kilowatts, and can adjust its orientation and height.

China has been focusing on mining thinner coal seams as locations with thicker coal deposits become depleted. This is driven by the country’s need to sustain its coal consumption and ensure energy security. However, while China has been making efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources, coal mining activities will still need to be phased out in the medium to long term to achieve its carbon neutrality goals.

Thin coal beds account for about 20% of China’s total coal reserves, but they only yield about 7% of the nation’s coal output due to poor mining conditions and low profitability. China is the world’s largest producer and user of coal and remains heavily reliant on the fossil fuel. Its dependence on coal has been driven by concerns about energy security, the reliability of renewable energy sources, and its economic recovery.

China’s commitment to reducing emissions and reaching carbon neutrality is crucial for global efforts to tackle the climate crisis. However, the country’s coal demand continues to grow, with an estimated 3.5% increase expected this year. Efforts to secure coal supply and low prices have resulted in a glut of the resource, which could impact China’s emissions reduction commitments. President Xi Jinping has emphasized that China’s commitments to reducing emissions and achieving carbon neutrality remain steadfast.