The release, which is still in the development stages, was the talk of the Cat exhibit, with the company noting that the addition to its line will add depth to its range of offerings.

The EL 1000 also gives longwall operations the power, production potential, controllability and safety features needed to tackle the geological and other demands of mining into the future, according to officials.

The OEM’s preliminary specifications indicate the EL 1000 will be able to accommodate seam heights of 1.6 to 3.2 metres, delivering an estimated cutting power of 1000 kilowatts.

Also, its haulage power is projected to be significant at 2 x 100 kW.

As with other shearers in its line, the EL 1000 will have a massive one-piece-mainframe construction along with exchangeable modular components. It also will feature advanced automation and Ethernet communication capabilities.

“As with all Cat Global Mining products, the worldwide network of Cat dealers will add significant value to the EL 1000, ensuring the highest quality product support—replacement parts, competent timely service and industry expertise,” officials said.

“Cat dealers understand longwall operators’ needs for reliable, continuously high production, and they have the capabilities to help accomplish that goal.”

Cat’s Longwall USA booth is not just shearer-focused. The equipment maker has brought along information on its Detect Personnel system, part of its MineStar suite, as well as MineStar’s System Operations Center.