Coal Mining Shearers use RotaBolt Technology
19/03/2013 James Walker RotaBolt Ltd
Caterpillar are using RotaBolt measurement technology on special versions of their Longwall Mining Shearers which are used in very challenging underground environments where vibration is a constant factor.The shearers have a reputation for maximum structural integrity and service life and the performance of RotaBolt fasteners has been helping Caterpillar to not only assure integrity but also improve maintenance checking.
The shearers can cut and load more than 5,000 tonnes an hour and feature a one-piece mainframe design. Special versions of the shearers with split mainframes are available wherever there are underground conditions that limit transportation.
The mainframe is split into three separate units and RotaBolts up to 6 metres in length are being used to join the sections together. The technical team at James Walker RotaBolt have worked closely with Caterpillar over the last five years evolving mainly M64 and M80 fasteners which have ranged from 1 metre in length to over 6 metres.
In joining sections of the mainframes together, the bolts are being tightened by mechanical jack tensioners, with RotaBolts providing control and measurement of correct tension up to 250 tonnes.
Feedback from operational teams in mines across Asia and Europe has been very positive, reporting enhanced underground assembly and disassembly as well as ongoing assured structural integrity.
For further information, please contact:
Rod Corbett
James Walker RotaBolt,
Tel: +44 (0)1384 214 442.
Email: sales@rotabolt.co.uk .
www.rotabolt.co.uk
Print this articleShare article:
Process and Control Today are not responsible for the content of submitted or externally produced articles and images. Click here to email us about any errors or omissions contained within this article.