Several of Alliance Resource’s independent operating subsidiaries have begun deployment of a recently developed proximity detection system designed to improve the safety of continuous mining machines used in underground operations. To date, ARLP operating companies have installed seven proximity detection systems on continuous miners in production at five underground coal mines.

The new system was developed and designed by Matrix Design, a subsidiary of ARLP. Matrix began development of its proximity detection technology in 2005. Its current technology, the Matrix Mine Monitor (M3), provides a practical, mine-duty system that trains operators to remain clear of unsafe areas, or red zones, by warnings and machine shut-downs. Matrix recently entered into a partnership with Joy Mining Machinery to offer a highly reliable proximity detection system for the entire range of Joy continuous miners. Matrix is currently conducting field tests and anticipates the system will be commercially available in the US market in early 2011.

“Alliance is committed to serving as a leader at the forefront of mine safety technology,” said Joseph W. Craft III, ARLP President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our operating companies share this commitment and are working diligently to complete installations of the Matrix proximity detection system on their entire fleet of continuous miners.”

Aric Pryor, Matrix President, added, “Matrix is pleased that ARLP operating companies have begun deployment of our M3 proximity detection system. All of us at Matrix are excited for this opportunity to advance the development of this new cutting-edge technology and we look forward to the opportunity to provide the mining industry with proximity detection technology through our partnership with Joy.”