This paper presents the results of a research project on development of lacing and breakout patterns used in the mechanical design of shearer drums. The torque graph is generated to estimate the force variance, and the effect of tool removal on shearer drum performance is discussed. In order to assist in the design process, a new software package was developed. The stand-alone and network versions with both metric and imperial units were developed in Microsoft Visual Basic programming language. The shearer drum database was developed using the Microsoft Access system and applies multiuser, open database connectivity for storage and processing of shearer drum information. The project was completed at the Pennsylvania State University in co-operation with Kennametal Inc. DESIGN COMPONENTS Shearer drum componentsMajor shearer drum components include the barrel, hub, end ring, and vanes. Figures 1 and 2 show side and sectional views of the shearer drum. The face (end) ring and vanes, in addition to structural and coal transportation functions, also serve as a base to which

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