Applications to mining work

In the report made one year ago mention was made of the prediction that both coal and metal mining are entering a new era of development. This has begun and indications point to a continuance of development particularly as to mechanization. We now have references made to some modern mines as being 100 per cent mechanized. Future developments will no doubt modify the scheme of application of mechanical operation in many details. Statistics indicate that an increasing percentage of coal is undercut, drilled, and loaded mechanically. This means that added generating capacity and conductors for distribution will be required. Also, inasmuch as power purchased from the utilities is increasing in use at the mines, the mechanization adds to the utility load.