A compact, transportable surface miner designed to deliver production-level performance on a range of jobs, such as continuous surface mining in quarries and mines as well as civil construction site preparation, has been introduced by industrial equipment supplier Vermeer.

The SM55 features drive-on, drive-off capability that enables single-load transportation with minimal permitting requirements and is engineered for versatility across quarrying, surface mining and civil construction applications.

Weighing 54 431 kg with a 310 kW Caterpillar C13 ACERT Tier 4 Final engine, the machine delivers 75° highwall capability, a maximum cutting depth of 351 mm and a maximum cutting width of 2 438 mm. It boasts advanced features including full-function remote control and GPS-compatible technology.

A standout feature of the SM55 is its transportability, says Vermeer specialty excavation equipment director of sales John Milligan.

Unlike larger surface miners that require disassembly for transport, the SM55 can be moved as a single unit on common industry trailers. This eliminates the need for cranes, rigging crews and extended setup times at each location, streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency, explains Milligan.

The machine's weight and compact dimensions fit within standard road and bridge weight restrictions, which helps reduce permitting requirements and transportation costs. Operators can drive the machine onto a trailer, transport it to the next site and begin cutting operations within hours.

The SM55 features full-function wireless remote control, allowing operators to control machine functions from their vehicle. The design also provides operators with a broader view of the work area while reducing exposure to noise, vibration and ground disturbance. An operator presence system automatically stops cutting operations if the operator leaves the seat or fails to respond to system alerts, providing an additional safety layer.

The remote-control system includes access to real-time machine diagnostics through TecX technology, offering operators information about machine performance and troubleshooting guidance.

The machine's single-side, direct-drive drum design enables enhanced power efficiency compared to chain-drive models while requiring fewer components and reduced maintenance. The top-down cutting action helps increase drum power availability while reducing material grade blending and minimising wear on cutting teeth and machine undercarriage. Operators control material sizing by adjusting cutting depth, drum speed, travel speed and tooth selection, helping to reduce the need for secondary crushing equipment.

A low center of gravity, stable parallel track design and zero-turn radius help to optimise machine maneuverability, improve stability across diverse surface conditions and navigate tight sites. The zero-turn radius capability reduces turnaround time on end rows and in confined areas, helping to improve production efficiency.

GPS technology allows operators to upload detailed line-by-line plans to the navigation system. The machine then automatically follows the predetermined plan, helping to keep overlap tight and reducing operator fatigue.

The SM55 is engineered to achieve higher tooth-tip force, enabling more effective cutting in hard rock conditions.

Vermeer integrates the SM55 with its VermeerOne platform, a telematics solution that offers real-time machine data, helping operators and fleet managers to enhance performance and proactively manage maintenance.