CLASSIFYING MINING AND RECLAMATION EQUIPMENT.

In order to keep pace with rapid changes in mining and reclamation equipment technology and to unify a fragmented area, an orderly classification system is offered. Present classifications are too narrow and overly simplistic. Over 50 equipment types are inventoried and a classification is proposed, based on the degree of activity (mobile or fixed) and the objective (excavate or handle), with precedence cited from industrial engineering. The numerous types are further consolidated into well recognized groups, which are then recomposed into the final classification. Because 'form ever follows function', many relationships and trends can now be identified. These include, but are not limited to, production analysis, diggability, failure mode, functional components, engineering intensity, operational aspects, and costs. Limitations are discussed that reflect the current flux of innovation, where mobile, flexible, and versatile equipment is stressed, along with miniaturization and hybridization. Because of its dense informational content and logical arrangement, the proposed classification system is superior to previous ones and provides an essential 'feel' in an otherwise baffling area. It should be of interest both to users and equipment manufacturers.