Optimisation of operating and design parameters of shearer drums by computer

The design of shearer drums is important in terms of the efficiency of longwall production systems. In order to improve shearer drum performance, computer aided designs have been developed. However, the existed programs can not automatically provide optimum results. In this study a new computer program has been developed to provide optimum drum operating and design parameters using multi-objective optimisation method with nonlinear constraints. The outcomes of such optimisation indicate increased production rate, decreased fluctuations of torque and forces, thereby resulting in significant financial savings. In addition, the program can calculate and show the fluctuations of torque, forces and the position of the resultant force acting on the drum and show the cutting pattern which is able to take account of interactions of vane picks and clearance picks. It can be used to analyse and assess the performance of given drum designs and thereafter the effects of any design modifications that might ensue.