The increasing global demand for rough materials forces almost every mine to look at the mechanisation in their processes. This will not onlyimprove performance but with safety issues becoming more and more prevalent, the need for the introduction of mechanisation technologies to mining applications is essential. Ongoing developments are occurring in almost every field, ranging from basic developments to specialised mining._x000D_
Mechanical tunnelling and shaft sinking have set the standards regarding safety, profitability and environmental protection. Different machine types and working principles have been developed to suit the geological and hydrological requirements of tunnelling projects worldwide. Continuous activity in research and development leads to constant optimisation of tunnelling performance._x000D_
FORMAL CITATION:Weiner, S, 2008. Mechanised tunnelling technologies for mining applications, in Proceedings First International Future Mining Conference and Exhibition 2008, pp 51-60 (The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy: Melbourne).