Roadheader type: AM 50
The AM 50 roadheader is a reliable and proven machine that constitutes a basic resource in coal mines in Poland and abroad. This is a self-propelled mining machine designed for driving headings, originally developed by Voest-Alpine Bergtechnik.
Many rebuilt versions of this type of roadheader can be found around the world, and they are still widely used in the mining industry. Over the years, it has become synonymous with efficient driving of dog and chamber headings.
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Operational capabilities
The AM 50 roadheader is a lightweight machine designed for driving dog headings with a cross-section of up to 16.4 m². It works well in rocks with compressive strengths of up to 80 MPa, with the most efficient operation in rocks with a strength of up to 60 MPa. This means that it is often used in coal mines.
The roadheader can operate in workings with an inclination of up to ±18° in the longitudinal direction and up to 5° in the transverse direction, which corresponds to typical conditions in coal mines. In the upgraded version of the AM50-ZW, the maximum cross-section of the excavation increases to 22 m², which means that the machine can be used in larger passages and adapted to the growing needs of the mining industry.
Where is the AM 50 roadheader used?
The AM 50 roadheader can be used in underground mines – both in non-methane and methane fields in workings classified as grade “a”, “b” or “c” methane explosion hazard level and grade “A” or “B” coal dust explosion hazard level. However, please remember that it is necessary to de-energise the roadheader in case of a maximum increase in methane concentration of up to 2%, which is a standard safety requirement.
The use of the roadheader for mining rock with abrasive properties, even within acceptable compressive strength limits (e.g., sandstone, sandy shale), causes increased wear and tear on mining picks and spare parts working in direct contact with the rock being mined and transported. This is an important aspect to take into account when planning mining operations and machine maintenance schedule.
Our offer
We offer comprehensive repair and revamping services for machinery used in the mining industry, especially for roadheaders. We provide professional servicing, regeneration of components and innovative technical solutions under our special programme. Feel free to check out our offer
The AM 50 roadheader – technical specifications
A low and a high version of the AM 50 roadheader is available on the market. They differ primarily in their mining capabilities. The low version allows the mining of cross-sections up to 16.4 m², while the high version increases it to 22 m². The maximum mining heights and widths, as well as the total weight of the machine, also vary accordingly.
The technical specifications given below take into account the parameters of the low and high version.
| Parameter | Value |
| Total length | 7470-7660 mm |
| Height | 1645-1845 mm |
| Width | 1845-2000 mm |
| Total weight | 26-28.4 t |
| Unit ground pressure | 0.11 MPa |
| Power supply | |
| Supply voltage | 500 V, 660 V or 1000 V (depending on version) |
| Cutter motor power | 100-132 kW |
| Total installed power | 133-169 kW (depending on version and accessories) |
| Cutting parameters | |
| Maximum cutting cross-section from one position | 16.4-22 m² (depending on version) |
| Maximum cutting height | 3758-4262 mm |
| Maximum cutting width | 4800-5100 mm |
| Cutting speed | 2.51 m/s |
| Cutter head type | Transverse |
Compact and manoeuvrable designThe compact design of the AM 50 roadheader ensures high manoeuvrability in confined spaces of mine workings. Simple operation and maintenance translate into lower operating costs and shorter downtime for ongoing maintenance. |
Modular designThe AM 50 roadheader is characterised by a modular design, which makes transporting the machine underground much easier. Each component can be transported separately and then quickly assembled at the work site. |
Resistance to harsh conditionsSurfaces exposed to wear are covered with materials with high abrasion resistance, which extends the life of the machine even in very harsh operating conditions. This is an important advantage in the context of mining abrasive rocks such as sandstone and sandy shale. |
VersatilityThe available low and high versions make it possible to adapt the machine to different working cross-sections. Various power options and the ability to install additional equipment add to the machine’s versatility. |
- A drilling rig or drilling and anchoring assembly.
- An articulated insert that allows for an increased cutting cross-section range.
- Hydraulic working platform with a support setting mechanism.
- Effective spraying system.
- Closed cooling system to reduce water consumption.
- Automatic central lubrication system.
Performance and efficiency
The efficiency of the AM 50 roadheader depends on a number of factors, including the strength of the rock being mined, the organisation of work at the rock face and the qualifications of the operator. Under optimal conditions, AM 50 roadheaders can make progress of 9-10 meters per day, which is a good result for lightweight class roadheaders.
An analysis of roadheader operation shows that the actual operating time of a roadheader at the rock face is typically about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes per shift, with an effective crew working time of about 5 hours. The remaining time is spent on support installation, auxiliary and finishing work, crew travel and return, and other necessary activities.
There are various solutions that can be used to increase the productivity of AM 50 roadheaders, such as integration with anchoring systems, optimisation of the excavated material transport process and use of modern mining tools with increased durability.
If you want to maximise the performance of your AM 50 roadheader, please contact us – we will select the best solutions tailored to your individual needs.
Roadheader type AM 50 – price
The price of the AM 50 roadheader depends on its technical condition, the extent of repair, modernisation and additional equipment. Manufacturer repair costs can be well over the budget, so it is worth getting in touch with us. We will analyse your needs and propose best-suited solutions while ensuring top quality within your budget. If you are interested in buying such a roadheader – do not hesitate to contact us.
Support for your AM 50 roadheader
If you already own an AM 50 roadheader and want to look after your assets comprehensively, check out our roadheader repair and upgrade services. We can restore your roadheader to its factory condition or even improve its original performance through the use of modern technology and highly-durable materials.
As part of the Minostar RESTART programme we can also expand the scope of application of the machine compared to the initial performance described by the manufacturer in the instruction manual. Please familiarise yourself with our repair services for roadheaders and other mining machines.
Minostar – reliable support for your business
Looking for a company to take all-round care of your AM 50 roadheader? With many years of experience and a team of qualified specialists, we are able to offer solutions tailored to the individual needs of our customers. Over the years, we have developed our own solutions which, in line with the principles of circular economy, seek to minimise downtimes and optimise water and electricity consumption.
By working with us, you will not only get a reliable machine, but also comprehensive technical support and solutions which you won’t find anywhere else. Feel free to take advantage of our services!
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Spare Parts and Technical Support for the AM-50 Roadheader
Minostar specializes in supplying high-quality spare parts for AM-50 roadheaders, designed to be fully compatible with the machine’s original engineering design and capable of directly replacing components used in its original configuration. The components we provide are developed on the basis of a detailed analysis of the roadheader’s construction, ensuring full dimensional and installation compatibility with the AM-50. In many cases, these parts also offer increased durability and improved operating performance compared with the solutions originally installed in these machines.
Our product range includes components for the most important systems of the AM-50 roadheader, including:
- cutting unit components (cutting heads, pick holders, cutting unit gearboxes),
- muck loading and transport system parts (loading units, gathering arms, scraper chain conveyors),
- travel system and crawler undercarriage components,
- hydraulic system components (hydraulic pumps, control valves, cylinders, hydraulic hoses),
- electrical and control system components,
- slewing and positioning mechanism parts for the cutting boom.
In addition to supplying spare parts for roadheaders, Minostar also carries out repairs, overhaul services and modernization projects for these machines. Depending on the operator’s requirements, we perform both targeted repairs of individual assemblies and comprehensive refurbishment work.
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Why us?
12 years of experience
Over a decade of activity, we have acquired knowledge and practical skills that allow us to successfully implement even the most complex projects.
An experienced team
Qualified engineers, mechanics and specialists with many years of experience in the mining industry who are constantly improving their competences.
Comprehensive offer
We offer a wide range of machines, parts and services. We provide support at every stage of the equipment life cycle.
Global reach
We deliver our solutions to customers from all corners of the world, gaining valuable experience in many demanding environments.
Design and main components of AM-50 roadheader
Cutting Unit of the AM-50 Roadheader
The cutting unit is the primary working assembly of the AM-50 roadheader, responsible for milling the solid rock face and directly breaking material from the tunnel heading. The AM-50 is equipped with a transverse cutting head fitted with two cutting drums, a configuration widely used in roadheader design for efficient rock excavation.
The diameter of the cutting unit, measured across the outline of the cutting picks, is 750 mm, while the working width of the cutting assembly reaches 1230 mm. The cutting drums are equipped with tangential-rotary picks, which detach rock fragments from the face during operation and enable efficient cutting of the surrounding rock mass.
A key operational parameter of the cutting system is the cutting speed of 2.51 m/s, which ensures effective rock milling while maintaining stable machine operation, even in more demanding geological conditions. Inside the cutting head there is a gear transmission, responsible for adjusting the rotational speed of the shaft carrying the cutting elements.
Depending on the machine configuration, 100:20 or 132:16 gear reducers may be used, allowing the cutting system characteristics to be adapted to the specific operating conditions underground.
Our company supplies components and spare parts for the AM-50 cutting unit, including gearbox elements, cutting head drive components and wear parts that play a crucial role in maintaining high excavation efficiency.
Cutting Head Slewing Mechanism and Positioning System
An essential structural component of the AM-50 roadheader is the slewing mechanism (slewing ring assembly), which enables precise positioning of the cutting unit relative to the tunnel face.
This system allows the cutting head to be accurately guided during the excavation of underground roadways and ensures that the heading is driven according to the required geometric parameters. Precise control of the cutting unit position has a direct impact on the quality of the excavated tunnel profile and the overall operational stability of the machine.
Our company provides a full range of slewing and positioning components for the AM-50 cutting unit, enabling the restoration of proper boom geometry and stable guidance of the cutting head during operation.
The slewing assembly also serves as a central structural element of the AM-50, as it connects the two sections of the machine frame. This design ensures sufficient structural rigidity and allows loads generated by the cutting unit during operation to be safely transferred through the machine structure.
Loading System and Muck Handling in the AM-50
In roadheader operation, efficient collection and transport of excavated material is just as important as the cutting process itself. In the AM-50, this task is performed by the loading system consisting of the gathering arms and the scraper chain conveyor.
The loading unit is equipped with a loading table with a standard width of 2000 mm, which can be expanded to 2500 mm or 3000 mm using dedicated extensions. This solution allows the width of the loading table to be adapted to the working conditions and the cross-section of the roadway.
Material detached by the cutting unit is transferred to the gathering system, most commonly in the form of gathering arms. This mechanism collects the broken rock and directs it onto the loading table of the roadheader.
The synchronization of the gathering arms and the transmission of drive power are handled by the gathering arm gearbox, which transfers drive from the scraper conveyor chain of the feeder system.
Chain Conveyor (Scraper Conveyor)
The transport of excavated material away from the cutting zone is carried out by the chain conveyor, commonly referred to as the scraper conveyor.
Its task is to receive material from the loading table and transport it to the downstream haulage equipment located behind the roadheader. The scraper conveyor therefore constitutes one of the key elements of the technological system of a roadheader.
As in most roadheaders, the system used in the AM-50 includes several fundamental components, such as:
- the conveyor chain,
- scraper bars transporting the excavated material,
- the conveyor drive,
- guide components and the conveyor trough structure.
The reliability of the conveyor system directly determines the continuity of machine operation. Wear of transport components may lead to reduced muck transport efficiency and increased load on the entire system.
Minostar supplies components for scraper conveyors used in AM-50 roadheaders, helping maintain stable and efficient operation of the muck transport system.
AM-50 Crawler Undercarriage
Machine mobility within the excavation is provided by the crawler undercarriage, which enables the roadheader to move and to be precisely positioned at the tunnel face.
The travel system of the AM-50 roadheader includes, among other components, travel gear reducers 15/256 and 11/257, which transmit drive power to the crawler tracks and allow the machine to be maneuvered accurately.
The undercarriage structure has been designed to minimize ground pressure on the roadway floor. The appropriate track width and design increase machine stability and improve operational safety in demanding underground conditions.
Our company supplies high-quality components for the AM-50 travel system, including drive elements, gearbox components and structural parts of the crawler undercarriage.
Hydraulics, Control and Power Systems in the AM-50
Proper operation of the AM-50 roadheader relies on its electrical system and control equipment, which are responsible for managing all machine functions. The roadheader is equipped with an SAE electrical cabinet and an operator control panel, allowing the operator to precisely control the machine and monitor its operating parameters.
A crucial role is also played by the hydraulic system, which powers hydraulic cylinders and other working mechanisms of the machine. The hydraulic installation of the AM-50 is also designed to supply external hydraulically driven equipment, with the possibility of adjusting the operating pressure.
If your AM-50 roadheader requires repair or modernization of its hydraulic system, our company provides reliable hydraulic components such as hydraulic pumps, control valves, hydraulic cylinders, pressure and safety valves, hydraulic hoses and filtration components. Together, these elements ensure proper operation of the hydraulic installation and maintain the required working pressure of the system.
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