Mining of hard coal

NACE code 05.10 covers the mining and extraction of hard coal, a vital energy resource that plays a crucial role in the global economy. As a major source of electricity generation and industrial heat, the hard coal mining industry is a significant contributor to the energy supply chain, meeting the demands of a wide range of economic sectors.

The mining of hard coal typically involves a combination of surface mining and underground mining techniques. Surface mining, also known as open-pit mining, is employed where the coal seams are close to the surface, while underground mining is used for deeper coal deposits. The extraction process often involves the use of heavy machinery, such as excavators, draglines, and continuous miners, to extract the coal from the earth and transport it to processing facilities.

The hard coal mining industry requires a range of inputs, including specialized mining equipment, explosives for blasting, and a skilled workforce with expertise in geological surveying, mining engineering, and equipment operation. Additionally, the industry relies on a robust transportation infrastructure, such as railways and roads, to move the extracted coal to power plants, steel mills, and other end-users.

The primary output of the hard coal mining industry is the coal itself, which is then consumed by 35.11 Electric power generation, 24.10 Manufacture of basic iron and steel, and other energy-intensive industries. The industry also produces various by-products, such as coal coke and coal tar, which are used in the 19.10 Manufacture of coke oven products and 20.14 Manufacture of other organic basic chemicals industries.