Field Trials with a Roadheader Equipped with a 10,000 psi Water Jet Assist System. Technical Memorandum No. TU(81)10

摘要

Field trials at Middleton Mine with a Dosco Mk2A roadheader fitted with a prototype 10,000 psi water jet assist system are described, together with an appraisal of the performance of the equipment used. When cutting an artifically constructed Grindleford sandstone heading, no effect on specific energy requirements or cutting rates were recorded when using jets. Benefits in the reduction, or elimination, of frictional sparking and dust make were, however, observed visually. More encouraging results were obtained when cutting Middleton Limestone, especially the weather outer layer of exposed rock. Improved cutting rates were obtained with high pressure water assistance, coupled with other benefits including increased pick life and reduced machine vibration. It is concluded that, while a 10,000 psi water jet assist system would not be wholly effective in a tough rock such as Middleton limestone, it could be used to good effect in the moderately hard stratas which a Dosco Mk2A cannot, at present, cut efficiently. It is further suggested that the application of jets at higher pressures could give even greater benefits.