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CAT Longwall Shearer EL2000

Your shearer is the most critical part of your longwall production process. That's why high-performance longwall operations demand shearers that deliver the highest productivity, availability and reliability. Cat shearers were always designed to meet these demands. But Caterpillar has taken them to the next level.

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST - To do this, we invested heavily in refining our successful range of shearers. We started by reviewing and analyzing all more recent shearer installations and setting goals to improve productivity, availa¬bility and reliability. This was not a re design, but an evolution – keeping the best tried-and tested features of the existing design while using the latest findings from science and technology to improve features and add new ones.

SHEAR PERFORMANCE - With high-powered ranging arms and haulage units, Cat shearers cut and load up to 5000 tons (5,500 tons) per hour and more, depending on mining conditions. The unique, one-piece mainframe design offers maximum structural integrity and service life. The mainframe is available as a split unit in the event of transportation limitations. Featuring the superior Jumbo track shearer haulage system, the shearer also offers advanced integrated automation and communication options.

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Overview

Your shearer is the most critical part of your longwall production process. That's why high-performance longwall operations demand shearers that deliver the highest productivity, availability and reliability. Cat shearers were always designed to meet these demands. But Caterpillar has taken them to the next level.

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST - To do this, we invested heavily in refining our successful range of shearers. We started by reviewing and analyzing all more recent shearer installations and setting goals to improve productivity, availa¬bility and reliability. This was not a re design, but an evolution – keeping the best tried-and tested features of the existing design while using the latest findings from science and technology to improve features and add new ones.

SHEAR PERFORMANCE - With high-powered ranging arms and haulage units, Cat shearers cut and load up to 5000 tons (5,500 tons) per hour and more, depending on mining conditions. The unique, one-piece mainframe design offers maximum structural integrity and service life. The mainframe is available as a split unit in the event of transportation limitations. Featuring the superior Jumbo track shearer haulage system, the shearer also offers advanced integrated automation and communication options.

Specifications

Typical Machine Length
13.75 m
Installed Power
1900 kW
Haulage System
AC
Applicable Minimum Pan Width
1032 mm
Available Haulage Motors
2 × 125 kW (2 × 168 hp)
Height Range
1.80-4.50 m (71-177 in)
Machine Weight – Approximate
70 tonne
Operating Voltages
2300V, 3300V, 4160V
Haulage System
AC inverter drive
Installed Power
Up to 1780 kW (Up to 2,387 hp)
Haulage System
AC inverter drive
Installed Power
Up to 1780 kW (Up to 2,387 hp)
Coal Sizer
100 kW

Machine @ 50 Hz

Available Cutting Power
2 × 500 kW (2 × 671 hp); 2 × 620 kW (2 × 831 hp); 2 × 750 kW (2 × 1,006 hp)
Body Height
520 mm
Cutting Drum Diameter
1.40-2.30 m (55-91 in)
Haulage Pull
Up to 920 kN/206,824 lbf (Up to 91 tonnes/100 tons)
Haulage Speed
Up to 32 m/min (Up to 105 ft/min)
Pump Motor
50 kW
Available Cutting Power
2 x 500 kW (2 x 671 hp); 2 x 620 kW (2 x 831 hp); 2 x 750 kW (2 x 1,006 hp)
Body Height
600.0 mm
Cutting Drum Diameter
1600-2500 mm (63-98.5 in)
Cutting Drum Speed
32.8, 37.4 and 45.2 rpm
Haulage Motor
2 x 125 kW (2 x 168 hp)
Haulage Pull
Up to 945 kN (96 tons)
Haulage Speed
Up to 30.1 m/min (98.8 ft/min)
Machine Weight (approximate)
70.0 tonne
Minimum Pan Width
1032.0 mm
Operating Voltage
3300.0 volts
Pump Motor
30.0 kW
Seam Range
1.8-4.5 m (71-177 in)
Typical Machine Length (drum centers)
14155.0 mm
Available Cutting Power
2 x 597 kW (2 x 800 hp); 2 x 746 kW (2 x 1,000 hp); 2 x 895 kW (2 x 1,200 hp)
Body Height
600.0 mm
Cutting Drum Diameter
1600-2500 mm (63-98.5 in)
Cutting Drum Speed
39.4, 44.9 and 54.3 rpm
Haulage Motor
2 x 125 kW (2 x 168 hp)
Haulage Pull
Up to 1049 kN (107 tons)
Haulage Speed
Up to 30 m/min (98.5 ft/min)
Machine Weight (approximate)
78.0 tonne
Minimum Pan Width
1032.0 mm
Operating Voltage
4160.0 volts
Pump Motor
30.0 kW
Seam Range
1.8-4.5 m (71-177 in)
Typical Machine Length (drum centers)
14082.0 mm

Ripper

Type
This flameproof module contains the majority of the shearer electrical control and power distribution components.
Type
High current carrying capacity of 400 amps and can accommodate trailing cables up to 185 mm2 (2.9 in2).
Type
All internal chassis can be ‘bench built,’ tested and stored.
Type
This unit also contains high voltage (HV) fuses, earth leakage and a visible disconnect.
Type
An extremely powerful PMC Evo-S control system with state-of-the-art Ethernet communication and backup functionality.
Type
This unit contains cutter motor contactors, circuit breakers, control transformer and current monitoring.
Type
Box contains various low voltage (LV) circuit breakers which can be reset through the flame proof (FLP) cover, reducing downtime
Type
This system monitors oil levels and temperatures, flows, pressures and vibration.
Type
A comprehensive health monitoring system is available.
Type
All hose assemblies are to ISO 6805 and proof tested to EN ISO 1402.
Type
This shearer is available with onboard filtration, dust suppression spray bars, shearer clearers and ranging arm spray rings.
Type
The hoses are assembled to Hose Assembly Standard DIN20066:201-10.
Type
Quillshaft transmission protection
Type
Integral water cooling @ 9 L/min (2 gal/min)
Type
Integral monitoring transducers
Type
Maximum oil capacity of 25 L (7 gal)
Type
Transmission reduction of 137:1
Type
Maximum power rating 125 kW (168 hp)
Type
This unit has a haulage motor rating of 125 kW (168 hp)
Type
Transmission rating of 750 kW @ 37.4 rpm and above
Type
Maximum drum diameter of 2500 mm (98 in)
Type
Square drum hub (440 mm [17.3 in] across flats)
Type
A robust cowl drive mechanism is also available on this model
Type
Online vibration monitoring with VibraGuard
Type
Available cutter motors - 500 kW, 620 kW and 750 kW, @ 50 Hz (800 hp, 1,000 hp and 1,200 hp, @ 60 Hz)
Type
Choice of drum speeds
Type
Complete with 32 mm (1.3 in) bore, through shaft PFF/PBF wet cutting
Type
Integral monitoring transducers
Type
Quillshaft transmission protection
Type
Maximum oil capacity of 28 L (7 gal) in high speed compartment and 30 L (8 gal) in the epicyclic
Type
PMC Evo-S control system allows the shearer to be operated even if the overall control system is not functioning.
Type
The shearer is equipped with a state-of-the-art industry PC in a flame-proof housing with plenty of computing power.
Type
State-of-the-art industry PC allows flexibility to upgrade to future features such as condition monitoring.
Type
Unlike competitor systems, modularity of the longwall system & control allows the longwall to operate in “fault-tolerant” mode.
Type
In other words, integrated automation does not prevent control via individual PLC’s in order to keep production up and running.
Type
PMC Evo-S control system with state-of-the-art Ethernet communication and backup functionality.
Type
This shearer has a state-of-the-art distributed automation system for the control, monitoring and protection of the shearer.
Type
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) takes care of basic machine control tasks, ensuring that coal is produced.
Type
Industry-leading Automation from the Pioneer of State-based Automation.
Type
Its modular design allows it to be configured to meet individual control needs.
Type
Suitable for all current rack type systems
Type
Transmission rating of 125 kW (168 hp)
Type
Maximum haulage pull 945 kN (107 tons)
Type
Innovative and unique downdrive design
Type
Removable modular top drive wheel assembly (cartridge)
Type
Downdrive ratio 17T—23T—10T (two wheel configuration)
Type
Trapping shoe with replaceable wear inserts, safe and easy to replace (unique to Caterpillar)
Type
Fully removable, rehandable, modular gearbox
Type
Module contains drive system circuit breaker and one 250 kW, 600V AC inverter drive, with regenerative braking module.
Type
This flameproof module contains the main 253 kVA haulage transformer, power supplies and auxiliary transformer.
Type
This model of shearer is available with headlights, cameras, methane monitoring, end displays and audible alarms.
Type
All electrical material is designed and certified to IEC standards and also complies with other regional and national standards.
Type
Operating system pressure of 260 bar (3,770 psi)
Type
Integral monitoring transducers
Type
For use with ISO 68 or ISO 100 hydraulic oils
Type
Robust hydraulic reservoir of 165 L (43.6 gal) capacity
Type
This unit has a pump motor rating of 30 kW @ 50 Hz (48 hp @ 60 Hz)
Type
Fixed displacement pump, with a capacity of 50 L/min (13.21 gal/min)
Type
Available with 6 section valve bank
Type
All hose and hosing is in compliance with guideline MDG 41 and MSHA regulations.
Type
The hoses are assembled to Hose Assembly Standard DIN20066:201-10.
Type
All hose assemblies are to ISO 6805 and proof tested to EN ISO 1402.
Type
Available with Machine Parking Brake
Type
Available with Machine Position Encoder
Type
Maximum protection of electrical boxes, providing the highest level of flameproof integrity
Type
Improved access for maintenance and ease of overhaul and repair
Type
Versatility of application due to fully modular construction
Type
High structural integrity and absorption of all cutting and haulage forces, providing maximum protection for all major units
Type
A split mainframe is available in case of transportation limitations

Dimensions (Approximate) - Mid-Low

AFC Pan Width - Maximum
1342.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Minimum
1032.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Maximum
4135.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Minimum
1900.0 mm
Height to Top of Machine Main Body
1495.0 mm
Machine Height over Main Body
1495.0 mm
Maximum Cutting Drum Overall Width
1150.0 mm
Shearer Drum Undercut of Floor
718.0 mm
Vertical Tunnel Clearance
649.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Maximum
1342.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Minimum
1032.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Maximum
3930.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Minimum
1800.0 mm
Height to Top of Machine Main Body
1444.0 mm
Machine Height over Main Body
1444.0 mm
Maximum Cutting Drum Overall Width
1150.0 mm
Shearer Drum Undercut of Floor
619.0 mm
Vertical Tunnel Clearance
598.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Maximum
1342.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Minimum
1032.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Maximum
4360.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Minimum
2200.0 mm
Height to Top of Machine Main Body
1571.0 mm
Machine Height over Main Body
1571.0 mm
Maximum Cutting Drum Overall Width
1150.0 mm
Shearer Drum Undercut of Floor
793.0 mm
Vertical Tunnel Clearance
725.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Maximum
1342.0 mm
AFC Pan Width - Minimum
1032.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Maximum
4570.0 mm
Cutting Heights - Minimum
2500.0 mm
Height to Top of Machine Main Body
1647.0 mm
Machine Height over Main Body
1647.0 mm
Maximum Cutting Drum Overall Width
1150.0 mm
Shearer Drum Undercut of Floor
866.0 mm
Vertical Tunnel Clearance
801.0 mm

Dimensions (Approximate)

Clearance from Drum to AFC Toeplate
300.0 mm
Diameter of Shearer Cutting Drum
1900.0 mm
Distance between Drums with Arms Horizontal
14155.0 mm
Distance between Ranging Arm Hinge Points
8525.0 mm
Distance between Trapping Shoe Centers
6056.0 mm
Ranging Arm Cutting Drum Diameter
1900.0 mm
Ranging Arm Length (hinge to drum)
2815.0 mm
Clearance from Drum to AFC Toeplate
300.0 mm
Diameter of Shearer Cutting Drum
1600.0 mm
Distance between Drums with Arms Horizontal
14155.0 mm
Distance between Ranging Arm Hinge Points
8525.0 mm
Distance between Trapping Shoe Centers
6453.0 mm
Ranging Arm Cutting Drum Diameter
1600.0 mm
Ranging Arm Length (hinge to drum)
2815.0 mm
Clearance from Drum to AFC Toeplate
300.0 mm
Diameter of Shearer Cutting Drum
2200.0 mm
Distance between Drums with Arms Horizontal
14155.0 mm
Distance between Ranging Arm Hinge Points
8525.0 mm
Distance between Trapping Shoe Centers
6612.0 mm
Ranging Arm Cutting Drum Diameter
2200.0 mm
Ranging Arm Length (hinge to drum)
2815.0 mm
Clearance from Drum to AFC Toeplate
300.0 mm
Diameter of Shearer Cutting Drum
2500.0 mm
Distance between Drums with Arms Horizontal
14155.0 mm
Distance between Ranging Arm Hinge Points
8525.0 mm
Distance between Trapping Shoe Centers
6056.0 mm
Ranging Arm Cutting Drum Diameter
2500.0 mm
Ranging Arm Length (hinge to drum)
2815.0 mm

Haulage Unit – HU100

Maximum Machine Speed
28.56 m/min
Pull at Maximum Speed
472.75 kN/106,278 lbf (48.40 tonnes/53.35 tons)
Speed at Maximum Pull
14.28 m/min
Total Machine Pull
945.51 kN/212,559 lbf (96.80 tonnes/106.70 tons)

Machine Automation and Communication

Levels of Automation
State-based shearer automation “Navigator 2”
Levels of Automation
Zone-based automation “Navigator 1”
Levels of Automation
“Longwall Navigator” for improved face alignment and horizon control
Levels of Automation
Integrated longwall automation with “Navigator 2 + 3”

Taking the Shearer to the Next Level

Designed for High-performance Mining

Your shearer is the most critical part of your longwall production process. That’s why high-performance longwall operations demand shearers that deliver the highest productivity, availability and reliability. Cat shearers were always designed to meet these demands. But Caterpillar has taken them to the next level.

Survival of the Fittest

To do this, we invested heavily in refining our successful range of shearers. We started by reviewing and analyzing all more recent shearer installations and setting goals to improve productivity, availa­bility and reliability. This was not a re?design, but an evolution – keeping the best tried-and?tested features of the existing design while using the latest findings from science and technology to improve features and add new ones.

Shear Performance

With high-powered ranging arms and haulage units, Cat shearers cut and load up to 5000 tonnes (5,500 tons) per hour and more, depending on mining conditions. The unique, one-piece mainframe design offers maximum structural integrity and service life. The mainframe is available as a split unit in the event of transportation limitations. Featuring the superior Jumbotrack shearer haulage system, the shearer also offers advanced integrated automation and communication options.

Key Improvements

Cat shearers incorporate numerous new features and benefits. These are presented in the following pages by category. The key improvements include:

  • Extremely powerful PMC™ Evo-S control system with state-of-the-art Ethernet communication
  • Improved innovative downdrive design
  • Ranging arm with longer service life
  • Further development of the modular haulage and electrical control box
  • Enhanced power pack with easy access
  • Online vibration monitoring with VibraGuard™
  • Clear wiring and use of plug and play for easy maintenance
  • Trapping Shoe Ix (Insert Exchange) for longer service life, safe and easy to replace
  • Future-proof design allowing upgrades – such as stronger ranging arms and haulage units or addition of coal sizer – during rebuild

Machine Mainframe

Made for Muscle

The unique mainframe of the Cat shearer is one of its key features. The fabricated structure of the mainframe with cast ranging-arm hinge points results in an extremely robust design not only to meet the toughest mining conditions and ensure reliability and long service life, but also to handle even higher cutting and haulage forces in the future. A split mainframe is available in case of transportation limitations.

Benefits:

  • High structural integrity and absorption of all cutting and haulage forces, providing maximum protection for all major units
  • Maximum protection of electrical boxes, providing the highest level of flameproof integrity
  • Improved access for maintenance and ease of overhaul and repair
  • Versatility of application due to fully modular construction
  • Flexible and cost-effective equipment management
  • Independent unit exchange and selective overhaul
  • Long service life
  • Low operational costs
  • High reliability

Innovative Trapping Shoe

Trapping shoes attach the shearer to the haulage rack system, part of the armored face conveyor, allowing the shearer to be hauled up and down the face. A new type of trapping shoe­ developed by Caterpillar – the Trapping Shoe Ix – offers numerous advantages over the conventional design:

  • Greater safety and ease of handling during replacement
  • Faster replacement
  • Greater flexibility
  • Longer service life
  • Lower operating costs

The patent-pending Trapping Shoe Ix continues the Caterpillar principle of designing products with separate structural and wear parts to allow quick and easy replacement of surfaces subject to wear. The new design cuts the weight that has to be handled during replacement from more than 500 kg to less than 50 kg per insert, and cuts the time required for exchange to a fraction of the previous time. Because the weight handled is so much lower, changeout can take place anywhere along the face – previously this work had to be done at the gate ends, where heavy lifting equipment was available.

Extended Service Life

The inserts have the same wear area as conventional shoes and are articulated. This – combined with the fact that the shoe does not have to exert as much pressure, resulting in a lower point load – means less wear. Field tests of the Trapping Shoe Ix showed its service life to be 50 percent longer than conventional trapping shoes.

Ranging Arms

Power for the Toughest Conditions

Our shearers cover a wide range of cutting heights and mining conditions. They have installed cutting power to provide world-class production in the toughest mining conditions: The EL2000 with a cutting power of up to 750 kW (1,200 hp).

  • High levels of installed power available in each class
  • Cutting depth of 0.85 m (2.79 ft) and 1.0 m (3.28 ft)
  • A range of cutter motors available to suit all mining conditions
  • Compact design for optimum coal-loading performance
  • Fast and accurate positioning of the ranging arm through two-speed technology and a more powerful lifting cylinder
  • Modularity allows fast in-situ maintenance and repair
  • Improved lubrication results in lower operating temperatures
  • New, more robust cowl drives

Strong Arm

The safety factor for the ranging arm has been further increased. Gear rating, bearing life and redundancy have also been increased, leading to longer overhaul intervals based on typical usage.

Coal Sizer

Cat shearers can be supplied with an optional rugged coal sizer, currently with up to 200 kW (320 hp) of installed power for maximum productivity in high seams or difficult mining conditions. The coal sizer can be ordered separately for installation during rebuild or overhaul.

Haulage System

Simple Design for Improved Reliability

Modular Haulage System

Caterpillar has further developed its modular haulage concept with increased power rating, gear rating, bearing life and redundancy, leading to longer overhaul intervals based on typical usage. The haulage system is a simple design capable of achieving cutting speeds of up to 32 m/min (105 ft/min), with improved reliability and longer service life. The fully modular haulage gearbox is located in the shearer mainframe and does not form part of the shearer structure. The haulage system offers:

  • Simple construction, improved reliability and longer service life
  • Fully proven load-sharing system
  • Reduced cost

Power Pack

The power pack has been re-engineered to provide increased functionality, optimized performance and better access to filtration units via simplified layout. Both of the following units are modular, with drawer units providing easy access and upgrade.

Transformer Box

  • Features closed-loop control with measurement of speed, not power
  • Transforms to 600V for haulage units’ frequency converter motors
  • Connectorized cables for reduced wiring and quick, clear installation
  • Temperature monitoring and water cooling

Control Box

  • Plug and play
  • Easy to maintain
  • Quick and easy troubleshooting

Downdrive System

Innovative and Fully Modular

Downdrive

An innovative downdrive design results in longer bearing life, increased gear rating and greater modularity for simplified maintenance. Height adjustment of the shearer is relatively easy and is achieved with replacement of the downdrive to allow adaptation to changing seam conditions. Every mainframe is designed to take the full range of downdrive arrangements to fit a wide range of seam heights.

  • Fully modular design
  • Easy maintenance access
  • Fully articulating shoe
  • High pull and maximum life

Tested for Reliability

Stringent Testing Assures Highest Quality

Downtime is extremely expensive for operators – costs continue to add up while nothing is produced. This is why Caterpillar ensures that our superbly engineered shearers are up to the job. That’s why each shearer design – which is optimized for maximum availability – is subjected to rigorous in-house testing to ensure that there are no unpleasant surprises when units are in service. Shearer production quality assurance falls into three main categories: lubrication verification, endurance block load testing and production load testing.

Lubrication Verification

Ranging arms and haulage units are subjected to an intense test regime to establish the optimum oil-level requirements to suit all mining conditions. The units are mounted on purpose-designed test rigs that are positioned to simulate the gradient of the underground seam. A suite of tests is performed with a range of different gradients and arm positions to represent even the most severe mining conditions. The units are operated until stable temperatures are achieved at all gradients. This establishes the minimum, maximum and optimum oil quantities for all conditions.

Endurance Block Load Testing

This test applies loads far in excess of those encountered during normal mining operations, ensuring that the shearer can operate reliably at the installed power ratings. Ranging arms or haulage units are mounted on purpose-designed test rigs in a back-to-back configuration driven by a suitable test motor. The endurance block load test imposes loads from 100% to 175% to ensure that the ranging arm design meets the requirements of the most demanding applications. Input torque, losses and output torque are monitored during the test, as are bearing, gear and shaft temperatures. Vibration is monitored by dedicated sensors. Oil samples are collected at intervals for analysis, as the presence of metal in the oil can indicate excessive component wear. On completion of the endurance test, units are dismantled for a full internal and external inspection to verify that the design is fit for purpose.

Production Load Testing

After successful endurance block load testing, the same test rigs are used to carry out production load testing of all ranging arms and haulage units. The test gradually increases the load up to full load. All temperatures and vibration points are monitored during the test, and oil samples are again collected for analysis.

Proven Productivity

This extensive range of tests ensures the highest possible availability of shearers in service and maximum return on investment for your longwall installation. Nothing is left to chance in ensuring that our shearers are unsurpassed in reliability.

Shearer Automation

Unparalleled Control

Industry-leading Automation from the Pioneer of State-based Automation

Caterpillar has developed a state-of-the-art distributed automation system for the control, monitoring and protection of the shearer. Its modular design allows it to be configured to meet individual control needs, from basic monitoring and protection to advanced automation and data transmission. The PMC™ Evo-S control system with state-of-the-art Ethernet communication and backup functionality allows the shearer to be operated even if the overall control system is not functioning. In 2002, State-Based Automation was invented and launched. Using this technology, Caterpillar now offers a comprehensive range of automation products.

Power and Flexibility

With extensive computer power installed and simple upgrade to new features, Cat shearer automation is fit for the future. Components connect into the network rather than directly to a central computer, simplifying installation, wiring, maintenance and troubleshooting. The shearer is equipped with a state-of-the-art industry PC in a flame-proof housing with plenty of computing power, allowing flexibility to upgrade to future features such as condition monitoring.

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) takes care of basic machine control tasks, ensuring that coal is mined. Unlike competitor systems, the modularity of the longwall system and control allow the longwall to operate in “fault-tolerant” mode, even when there is a problem with the overall automation system. In other words, integrated automation does not prevent control via individual PLCs in order to keep production up and running.

The Net is the Control

The shearer control system uses a state-of-the-art Ethernet bus, resulting in a drastic reduction in wiring and a huge increase in flexibility. There are no interfacing problems, as equipment connected to the network only needs to be able to communicate via Internet Protocol. Commissioning, maintenance, upgrades and troubleshooting are much easier and faster, and equipment is self-configuring. The few cables that are used are standard Ethernet cables rather than application-specific cables – cutting costs and simplifying spare parts inventories.

Flameproof housings are no longer required, simplifying installation and speeding up maintenance. New modules are based on standardized CIOS™ modules (configurable input output system), resulting in a plug and play approach to upgrades. No reprogramming is necessary.

Remote control and diagnosis are also possible for all components. And because of the Ethernet-based approach, the failure of one component does not impact the whole system.

Intrinsic Safety

More components designed to be intrinsically safe means simpler installation and speedier maintenance. New modules are based on standardized CIOS™ modules, resulting in a plug and play approach to upgrades. Changes to the system only require commissioning changes – such as mounting and connection of sensors. No replacement of control software is required. Remote control and diagnosis are also possible for all components. And because of the Ethernet-based approach, the failure of one component does not impact the whole system. This not only supports the unique “fault- tolerant” mode, which allows the longwall to continue to operate when there is a problem with the overall automation system, but also, through systematic isolation, allows faulty units to be identified while production continues.

PMC™ Evo-S Offers Reliability from Day One

  • Robust cables and plugs
  • Minimized cabling due to network approach
  • Vibration-tested components
  • Designed for the working environment

Condition Monitoring

Maximum Protection for Machine Components

Visualization

Visualization not only provides a graphical representation of current operating conditions, but can also display historical conditions and a graphic display of trends. An automated longwall is a highly complex system with many interacting components generating time-variant data. Visualization gives operators a better understanding of the overall system, allowing them to further optimize operations. VLongwall provides a system overview and access to the dedicated visualization modules VShield, VDrive, VPlow and VShearer. It also gives access to VTrend for trend analysis and VGraph3D for waterfall plots of the entire longwall.

VibraGuard™

VibraGuard™ allows trained personnel to predict machine component wear, avoid unplanned downtime and set alarms to warn the operator if monitored machine components run the risk of damage. This comprehensive protection backs long life and high availability of your valuable mining equipment.

  • Permanent online monitoring and protection of equipment instead of sporadic offline measurements
  • Assists in the prediction of machine component wear
  • Alarms warn the operator if monitored components are at risk of damage
  • When utilized by trained personnel, VibraGuard™ makes repairs predictable and helps avoid unplanned downtime
  • Repair work can be done largely without stress
  • Allows timely procurement of spare parts
  • Transfers data to a surface control center PC for detailed analysis and evaluation

Modular Control

Offering Flexibility and Power

PMC™ Evo-S brings state-of-the art processor performance underground. Designed by the market leader in shearer automation, the advanced Cat automation package allows improved utilization of manpower in a safe environment; with increased yield from any given seam section, faster haulage speeds, improved face management and increased life of all longwall equipment, including AFC and shields.

Automation systems match your needs – from basic to highly sophisticated – while remaining easy to install, operate and maintain. The modular control concept is:

  • Easily expandable based on modular design
  • Ready for integration of highly sophisticated technologies and devices
  • Equipped for XML-based interfaces to third- or fourth-party systems

Making it Easy

  • Cat self-configuring controls and standard interfaces such as Ethernet allow quick and easy system configuration changes with no programming effort
  • Ready for future technologies such as high-quality condition monitoring, including vibration monitoring
  • Easy and flexible adaptation to existing data environments
  • Greater use of Ethernet, standard connectorization and PMC™ control family mean greater simplicity, reduced spares inventories and shorter downtimes
  • Standardization and modularization allow quick and easy customization of components and systems

Fast Troubleshooting

  • Widespread use of intrinsically safe components allows large-scale fault diagnosis under power
  • Remote access to most components down to I/O level
  • Diagnosis from surface or by Cat Mine Control Center
  • Managed switches and field bus coupler (FBC) allows selective routing: – Permits sequential disable and enable of components and/or communication routes – Isolation of faulty units until next repair shift allowing production to continue

Less Maintenance Effort

  • Widespread use of intrinsically safe components in PMC™ Evo-S reduces time-consuming opening of flame-proof housings in the event of faults.
  • Quick and easy exchange of modules.

Modularity is Strength

Modularity is a key feature of the Cat shearer. It results in independent major units, each driven by its own dedicated electric motor and housed within or attached to a robust mainframe unique to the Cat range. Control systems are also modular.

This modular design offers maximum availability – through “fault-tolerant” mode operation – and the flexibility to meet even the most demanding customer requirements by upgrading components such as the ranging arm.

The Cat Shearer Product Line

Covering Various Seam Heights

The EL2000 incorporates all the features and benefits that have been established with the Cat shearer range in a compact, rugged machine designed to meet the demands of high productivity in low- to medium-seam applications from 1.80 to 4.50 m (70 to 177 in). High installed power is a feature of the EL2000 shearer, with up to 750 kW (1,200 hp) in a compact design. The haulage system is tailored to the needs of high-productivity medium-seam applications with up to 125 kW (200 hp) AC drives.

Benefits:

  • High level of structural integrity provided by the unique Cat shearer mainframe design
  • Maximized coal cutting and coal clearance ability
  • Advanced automation for optimized performance and improved face management

Coming soon...............