The Bucyrus Highwall Miner is equipped with interchangeable electric cutterhead modules to facilitate mining of varying coal seams heights from 28 inches (71.1 cm) to 15 feet (4.6 m). Low seam cutterhead modules can mine seams from 28-64 inches (71.1 - 162.3 cm), while medium and high seam modules can mine up to 15 feet (4.6 m).
The cutterhead module attaches to the powerhead assembly in the center of the machine. Two hydraulically powered cylinders provide 380,000 pounds (172.4 metric tons) of force to cut into the coal seam - reaching depths over 1,000 feet (304.8 m).
The cutting cycle of the electric cutterhead is fully automated. As the coal seam varies, the machine operator is able to adjust the machine function while in automatic mode. This proven technology allows the cutterhead to accurately follow the coal seam and produce a cleaner product.