TRENDS TO IMPROVE THE PERFORMANCE OF CUTTER-LOADERS FOR THIN HALFHORIZONTAL LAYERS
Background . When creating cutter-loaders that can work effectively in thin horizontal layers, it is necessary to take into account the influence of the geometric parameters of their working units in the process of loading the discharged coal on the grating conveyor. The optimized loading capacity of working units achieved only with a comprehensive account of the influence of specific geometric parameters of the augers and their drives. Materials and/or methods. In solving this problem, the works of domestic and foreign scientists, as well as the authors' certificates aimed at improving the productivity of cutter-loaders for thin flat layers considered and analyzed. Results. The further direction of the increase of efficiency of work of cutter-loaders with screw working bodies intended for work in conditions of thin flat layers proved. Conclusion. The minimum power for destruction and loading provided at a width of 0.4 to 0.6 m, which reduces the energy intensity of the process of crushing and loading by two times (from 0.72 to 0.35 kWh/t). Further studies are required to increase the capacity of the unloading window and reduce the circulation of the discharged rock mass, which should be carried out using specialized software for simulation of the working processes of cutter-loaders in thin flat layers.