The TVM 55 H full-face heading system produced by Demag will be used in Czechoslovakia in 1984 for mine drivage at the 11th mining level of the CSA black coal mine in the Ostrava-Karvina basin. Design and specifications of the TVM 55 H system are evaluated: maximum working diameter 6.0 m, advance rate of the system in sandstone 1.2 m/h, in argillite 2.2 m/h, 5 rpm of the full-face cutting system, rated power of electric motors 1,080 kW. Major elements of the system are described. Mining and geologic conditions of the CSA coal mine are discussed. Full-face shaft excavation systems developed in the USA, USSR and the FRG are described. Selected aspects of materials handling of cut rocks during full-face shaft sinking are investigated.