Material diggability studies for the assessment of bucket wheel excavator performance

Abstract

The results of a study undertaken to assess material diggability for bucket wheel excavator (BWE) performance by the direct cutting method are presented. The specific cutting energy (MJ/m³) obtained by the standard cutting test was compared with the results of the O&K wedge test and a good correlation was established. The cutting specific energy was then used to develop the material diggability classification. This classification can be used to assess the diggability of an overburden strata by a BWE.