The headframe of the research and teaching mine is dismantled

In preparation for the spectacular action, the head roof and the rope sheaves were already removed on May 17. The university was supported by the company Schachtbau Nordhausen with impressive technology - including a 750-ton special crane. This was also used on May 18 and lifted out the 42-ton scaffold at the end of the entire structure. A strenuous act for all those involved, as the bolt remnants connecting the scaffold to the inclined supports became wedged. After these were removed by hand by workers, the scaffold finally hung free at around 4 pm. The diagonal supports were then dismantled using a lifting platform provided by the fire department.

The renovation work is expected to last until the fall. Until then, the research and teaching activities of the TU Bergakademie Freiberg will continue via an access to the Alte Elisabeth. Visitor operations, however, are suspended.

The renovation of the headframe marks the beginning of a large number of further construction measures that will extend over the next few years. This also includes the modernization of the entire shaft hoisting system as well as measures to improve the underground ventilation control and the infrastructure. "In addition to the long-term technical safeguarding of the mine at the Reiche Zeche, the aim is also to sustainably strengthen the modern research facilities and the associated visitor operations," explains Professor Helmut Mischo, Scientific Director of the Research and Training Mine of TU Bergakademie Freiberg. The renovation work is being financed by the Free State of Saxony. Based on a contractual agreement between the Staatsbetrieb Sächsisches Immobilien- und Baumanagement and TU Bergakademie Freiberg, the university can implement the planned construction measures on its own. (For further information see press release from 23.04.2021).

Here are a few impressions of the disassembly: