The construction site of the new derrick at Xishangzhuang coal mine [Photo/Yangquan Daily]

The Xishangzhuang coal mine project operated by Yangquan Coal Industry Group -- based in Yangquan city in Shanxi province -- recently completed the installation of extra-large derricks after over a month of construction, a company spokesman said.

The main coal shaft is equipped with a large-scale derrick with a net weight of 170 metric tons and a height of about 37 meters. 

The derrick used to support the head sheave platform and bear the entire lifting load is key to the shaft lifting system, according to director of its manufacturer, Shanxi Hongxia Construction Engineering No 1 Co. 

Shanxi Hongxia Construction will next install facilities such as head pulleys, winches and hanging scaffolds to facilitate construction of pit shafts. 

The Xishangzhuang coal mine -- with an annual output capacity of 5 million tons -- is a key project of the city and Shanxi province. 

The coal mine covers an area of 46.7 square kilometers, and has estimated recoverable reserve of 530 million tons.