Based on the provided information, the operation of underground coal mines involves reaching deep coal seams through shafts, traveling through extensive tunnel systems, and using specialized machinery to extract the coal.
Getting to the Coal Seam
Underground coal mines are complex operations that can extend significantly deep into the earth.
- Deep Shafts: Some underground mines are thousands of feet deep, requiring miners to descend vertically.
- Using Elevators: Miners ride elevators down deep mine shafts to reach the levels where the coal is located.
Traveling Through the Mine
Once at the correct depth, miners navigate a network of tunnels.
- Extensive Tunnels: Tunnels may extend out from the vertical mine shafts for miles, creating a vast underground infrastructure.
- Small Trains: Miners travel on small trains in long tunnels to get to the specific areas where digging is taking place.
Extracting the Coal
The final stage described involves the actual removal of coal from the ground.
- Reaching the Coal Face: Miners and equipment reach the coal seam via the underground tunnel network.
- Digging Out Coal: The miners use large machines to dig out coal from the rock.
In summary, based on the reference, underground coal mining involves miners using elevators to descend deep shafts, traveling horizontally via trains in tunnels, and employing large machines to dig out the coal.
