Electrical Technology in Mining: The Dawn of a New Age

A consideration of the early development of electricity in a major British coalfield and an investigation into how such a well-established, labour-intensive industry upon which the prosperity of the local community depended was able to respond to the challenge of new technology. The book spans the history of uses for electricity in mining, starting with early developments and their applications for winding, hauling, lighting and ventilation. The text goes on to cover early applications arising from the limitations imposed by the traditional safety helmet, continues with early electrical and distribution systems (the La Perroniere system and the Trafalgar Colliery installation) and drive considerations, and next investigates coal face mechanisms in terms of electrically-driven cutting tools and conveyors. The book further looks at winding and haulage and how electrical techniques were developed in Britain in terms of locomotives. Safety legislation and education are also covered, including the two enquiries of 1902 and 1909. The matter of private generation is discussed and a number of examples are quoted.