Bucket Wheel Excavators: Balancing and Dynamic Response of the Slewing Superstructure

Abstract

A slewing superstructure (SS) represents a key functional subsystem of bucket wheel excavators (BWEs). Identification of its basic parameters of static stability (BPSS: weight and position of the center of gravity) is of equally crucial significance in design of a BWE and in its exploitation. The BPSS dominantly determine the static stability of a BWE SS and, coupled with stiffness, its dynamic response. This paper presents the results of research on the impact of the difference between the experimentally and analytically determined SS BPSS on the: (1) intensities of forces in the ropes of the bucket wheel boom hoisting mechanism; (2) maximum loads of the SS radiaxial slew bearing balls; (3) dynamic response of the SS. The presented research represents the initial stage in forming of the integral methodology for the assessment of impact of the mentioned differences on the key indicators which determine the lifespan and integrity, as well as reliability and safety of the SS of BWEs and related surface mining and material handling machines.