In December, Jastrzebska Spolka Weglowa (JSW), the largest producer of coking coal in the European Union, completed one of the most important investments in the history of the Pniowek mine. The project to deepen shaft III from 856 to 1,053 meters and commission the new 1,000 horizon was completed, which was a key step in improving safety, transport efficiency, and working conditions for miners.
The project also included the modernization of mine hoisting installations in the eastern and western sections of the shaft, which now served the new horizon. The work has been ongoing since 2020 and was carried out by a consortium of PBSz SA and PPG ROW-JAS under operating conditions.
“Deepening the shaft while simultaneously operating horizons 705 and 830 was an extremely difficult task. Thanks to the use of a so-called artificial bottom, we were able to safely continue the work without disrupting the daily operation of the mine,” said Przemysław Grinig, chief mechanic of the Pniowek mine hoisting and surface installations.
Shaft III, with a diameter of 7.5 m, performs ventilation and transport functions, ensuring air extraction, personnel descent, and material transport. After the investment was implemented, it serves three levels – 705, 830, and the new 1000, which has become the main one. Already, about 60% of employees start their shift at this level.
The launch of the 1000 level made it possible to abandon the transportation of materials from the 830 level, which directly increased safety and productivity. The new three-story cage can accommodate 78 people at a time, and the modernization of the hoisting machines and replacement of the ropes have ensured operation with heavier loads. In addition, the ventilation system has been improved.
“The completion of the deepening of shaft III is a turning point for the development of the mine. The investment ensures a higher level of safety, better logistics, and stable operation for many years to come,” emphasized Michal Szipula, chief investment engineer at the Pniowek mine. (GMK Center)