Importance

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Abstract

A continuous mining machine is provided which includes a frame assembly having a material dislodging head mounted on one end of the frame. Ground engaging traction treads or wheels propel the machine within a mine to advance the dislodging head into a mine face to dislodge material therefrom. The mining machine also includes roof support apparatus capable of assuming a free-standing position separated from the mining machine to install supports in the roof above the mining machine as the mining machine continuously advances. The roof support apparatus includes a transverse beam having a pair of end portions extending outwardly from the sides of the frame assembly. Connected to the ends of the transverse beam are a pair of support assemblies each including apparatus for lifting the roof support apparatus vertically off the mining machine and initially supporting the mine roof. Each support assembly further includes apparatus for lifting a crossbeam into abutting contact with the mine roof and apparatus operable to drill a hole through the crossbeam into the mine roof and thereafter anchor the crossbeam to the mine roof with roof bolts. The minimg machine also includes a pair of gathering head extensions positioned laterally on the gathering head rearwardly of the dislodging head. Each gathering head extension is movable in a linear path from a retracted position to an extended position to engage an adjacent mine rib and deflect loose material from the mine floor onto the gathering head.

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First Claim