The conventional single slice longwall system can be applied to seams with thickness ranging from 3 to 4.5 meters, and in execptional cases, beyond. This is achieved using specially designed longwall equipment (right, and below)

Common problems arising from using this system in seams beyond 4.5 meters include (but are not limited to):

• Coal Face Failure
• Dust Control
• Gate-end logistics become much more difficult

Often, when mining in seams with thickness of 4.5 meters and beyond, the maingate will be situated at the same level as the face floor, however the tail gate will be raised to the upper position of the face. This aids in ventilating the face, and helps avoid any methane pockets. (See diagram below)