ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines some of the problems that were encountered in the Neyveli lignite mines, due to the difficult climatic and operating conditions. It outlines the steps taken to compensate for conditions. The Bucketwheel excavators were chosen, with bucket capacities of 350 litres and 700 litres, to meet the required production rate of 3.5 Mt per year. The undercarriages used in the Neyveli mines are mounted on three pairs of tracks: two steering and one self aligning. The original super-structures and gantry were of the conventional lattice construction with heavy angles, the latter joined with gussets. The gantry has been experiencing heavy failures in the area where the angular bracing structures were riveted. The Neyveli project has been attracting world-wide attention, due to the unique conditions found at Neyveli.
