Arranging mining machinery systems in a single classification by the types of raw peat being extracted

Abstract

The following article presents a single classification of peat extraction strategies, methods, mining machinery systems, and types of raw peat. It also defines types of connection established between blocks, modules and mining machines within an extraction system. We suggest nine main mining systems that include specialized blocks and modules. Given strategies (peat quarrying and surface layer extraction) utilize the following techniques - excavation, hydraulic extraction, loosening and auxiliary operations. Techniques of peat extraction are further divided into methods. Extraction techniques imply the division of structure of peat materials into five groups - cloddy, sod, and milled peat, slurry and secondary raw materials. It was the parameter of peat material structure that made it possible to link extraction methods with tools used for their realization. Systems of mining machinery were classified by the types of connection between blocks and modules - coordination, connection, and coupling. The next level of our classification includes functions of mining systems (extraction and processing, deposit preparation, drainage, extraction, recultivation, deposit maintenance, subordinate and auxiliary systems, and systems for product transportation). Blocks and modules linked by coordination, connection, and coupling form a mining system that is used within the whole process of peat extraction. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.