Abstract: A method and machine for removing blockage and silt from abandoned auger holes preparatory to mining a portion of the remaining ore or preparatory to the placement of charges in said holes. Initially, the highwall is faced up by removing blockage proximate and external to the auger hole as with conventional earth moving equipment. The blockage from within the mouth of the auger hole is removed to expose blockage deposited within the auger hole at locations spaced from the auger hole mouth. Blockage at locations spaced from the auger hole mouth is removed by a apparatus which collapses to penetrate the blockage and is deployed to engage the blockage such that as the machine is withdrawn from the auger hole, the blockage is removed therewith. A device is provided for completing the auger hole cleaning operation by entraining silt or other contaminates in a stream of water and collecting the silt laden water which is transported and discharged at a remote location.

Abstract: A machine for mining hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes is disclosed which is suitable for being drivingly connected to a conventional mining apparatus, particularly an auger mining apparatus. The mining machine includes cutting apparatus for mechanically contacting and dislocating hard material in-situ between adjacent auger holes. A power operated system is drivingly connected to the cutting apparatus for generating a cutting motion during the in-cutting operation. A guiding system is provided for maintaining the cutting apparatus in mechanical contact with hard material in-situ between the adjacent auger holes. In one embodiment of the invention a collection bin collects the dislocated material which is transported from the position at which the material is mined to a remote location for deposit.