Replaceable mounting apparatus for reducing elements

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus including a drum rotatable about an axis of rotation and a support mount secured to the drum. The apparatus includes a support mount defining first and second fastener openings and first and second anchor openings. A replaceable holding block mounts to the support mount and the replaceable holding block has a front face and a rear face. The replaceable holding block defines a first fastener opening, a second fastener opening, and a tooth opening that extend through the replaceable holding block from the front face to the rear face. The first and second fastener openings of the replaceable holding block align with the first and second fastener openings of the support mount when the replaceable housing block is mounted to the block mounting surface. A tooth is secured to the replaceable holding block at the tooth opening.

Claims

1. A replaceable holding block comprising: a main body having a front face and a rear face, the replaceable holding block defining a first fastener opening, a second fastener opening, and a tooth opening that extends through the replaceable holding block from the front face to the rear face, the tooth opening being adapted to receive a reducing element such that the reducing element is positioned at the front face of the main body of the replaceable holding block; wherein the first fastener opening is parallel to the second fastener opening; wherein the first and second fastener openings are disposed on the same side of the tooth opening such that there is no reinforcement structure on an opposite side of the tooth opening, one of the first and second fastener openings being spaced farther from the tooth opening than another one of the first and second fastener openings; wherein each of the first and second fastener openings is adapted to receive a block fastener for securing the replaceable holding block to a support mount; and wherein the rear face has a planar surface that interfaces with a block mounting surface of the support mount when the replaceable holding block is mounted to the support mount; wherein the first fastener opening, the second fastener opening, and the tooth opening of the replaceable holding block have center axes that are parallel, and wherein the axes of the first fastener opening, the second fastener opening, and the tooth opening of the holding block are aligned along a common plane.

2. The holding block of claim 1, wherein the first and second fastener openings of the holding block each include a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter, the first portions extending from the front face of the holding block to the second portions, and the second portions extending from the first portions to the rear face of the holding block.

3. The holding block of claim 1, wherein the rear face of the replaceable holding block defines a channel that is adapted to receive at least a front portion of the support mount.

4. The holding block of claim 3, wherein the channel is defined by parallel rails that are adapted to overlap first and second sides of the support mount such that the front portion of the support mount nests within the channel.

5. The holding block of claim 1, further comprising an insert that mounts in the tooth opening for receiving a shank of the reducing element, the insert including a front ring on which a head of the reducing element seats.

6. The holding block of claim 5, wherein a wear indicator is provided on the front ring.

7. The holding block of claim 1, wherein the main body further includes a post extending from the rear face, the post being configured to be received in an opening defined by the support mount.

8. The holding block of claim 1, wherein the holding block is made of a hardened steel material.

9. The replaceable holding block of claim 1, wherein the tooth opening is aligned with the first and second fastener openings such that the first and second fastener openings have an in-line relation with the tooth opening.

10. A holding block for supporting a rotary cutting tool on a drum, the holding block being mounted on the drum at an acute cutting angle, the holding block comprising: a main body including: a cylindrical tool mounting aperture having a center line and a diameter, the cylindrical tool mounting aperture defining an axis of rotation of the rotary cutting tool; a front face, a rear face, and a bottom face, the bottom face having a planar portion that extends between the front and rear face, the rear face including a pair of parallel rails that define a channel, the cylindrical tool mounting aperture being adapted to receive a reducing element such that the reducing element is positioned at the front face of the main body of the holding block; a first fastener opening that extends through the main body from the front face to the rear face; and a second fastener opening adjacent the first fastener opening that extends from the front face to the rear face; a third fastener opening adjacent the first fastener opening and the bottom face that extends from the front face to the rear face; and a fourth fastener opening adjacent the second fastener opening and the bottom face that extends from the front face to the rear face; wherein the first, second, third and fourth fastener openings are parallel to the centerline of the cylindrical tool mounting aperture, the first, second, third, and fourth fastener openings being disposed on the same side relative to the cylindrical tool mounting aperture such that there is no reinforcement structure on an opposite side of the cylindrical tool mounting aperture, the first and third fastener openings being disposed on a first side of the center line and the second and fourth fastener openings being disposed on an opposite, second side of the center line, the first, second, third, and fourth fastener openings being adapted to receive block fasteners for replaceably mounting the holding block to a support mount; and wherein the rear face has a planar surface that interfaces with a block mounting surface of the support mount when the holding block is mounted to the support mount.

11. The holding block of claim 10, wherein the channel includes a recess for resisting twisting or torque caused by a side or lateral load being applied to a reducing element.

12. The holding block of claim 10, wherein the parallel rails are adapted to overlap first and second sides of the support mount such that a front portion of the support mount nests within the channel.

13. The holding block of claim 10, wherein the main body further includes a post extending from the rear face, the post being configured to be received in an opening defined by the support mount.

14. The holding block of claim 10, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth fastener openings are disposed offset relative to the cylindrical tool mounting aperture.

15. A replaceable holding block comprising: a main body having a front face and a rear face, the replaceable holding block defining a first fastener opening, a second fastener opening, and a tooth opening that extends through the replaceable holding block from the front face to the rear face, the tooth opening being adapted to receive a reducing element such that the reducing element is positioned at the front face of the main body of the replaceable holding block; wherein the first fastener opening is parallel to the second fastener opening; wherein the first and second fastener openings are disposed on the same side of the tooth opening such that there is no reinforcement structure on an opposite side of the tooth opening, one of the first and second fastener openings being spaced farther from the tooth opening than another one of the first and second fastener openings; the rear face including a pair of parallel rails that define a channel, the channel including a recess for resisting twisting or torque caused by a side or lateral load being applied to a reducing element; wherein each of the first and second fastener openings is adapted to receive a block fastener for securing the replaceable holding block to a support mount; wherein the rear face has a planar surface that interfaces with a block mounting surface of the support mount when the replaceable holding block is mounted to the support mount; and wherein the tooth opening is parallel to the first and second fastener openings.

16. The holding block of claim 15, wherein the replaceable block defines a third fastener opening and a fourth fastener opening.

17. A replaceable holding block comprising: a main body having a front face and a rear face, the replaceable holding block defining a first fastener opening, a second fastener opening, and a tooth opening that extends through the replaceable holding block from the front face to the rear face, the tooth opening being adapted to receive a reducing element such that the reducing element is positioned at the front face of the main body of the replaceable holding block; wherein the first fastener opening is parallel to the second fastener opening; wherein the first and second fastener openings are disposed on the same side of the tooth opening such that there is no reinforcement structure on an opposite side of the tooth opening, one of the first and second fastener openings being spaced farther from the tooth opening than another one of the first and second fastener openings; wherein each of the first and second fastener openings is adapted to receive a block fastener for securing the replaceable holding block to a support mount; wherein the rear face has a planar surface that interfaces with a block mounting surface of the support mount when the replaceable holding block is mounted to the support mount; and wherein the first and second fastener openings of the replaceable holding block each include a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter, the first portions extending from the front face of the replaceable holding block to the second portions, and the second portions extending from the first portions to the rear face of the replaceable holding block.

18. A replaceable holding block comprising: a main body having a front face and a rear face, the replaceable holding block defining a first fastener opening, a second fastener opening, and a tooth opening that extends through the replaceable holding block from the front face to the rear face, the tooth opening being adapted to receive a reducing element such that the reducing element is positioned at the front face of the main body of the replaceable holding block; wherein the first fastener opening is parallel to the second fastener opening; wherein the first and second fastener openings are disposed on the same side of the tooth opening such that there is no reinforcement structure on an opposite side of the tooth opening, one of the first and second fastener openings being spaced farther from the tooth opening than another one of the first and second fastener openings; wherein each of the first and second fastener openings is adapted to receive a block fastener for securing the replaceable holding block to a support mount; wherein the rear face has a planar surface that interfaces with a block mounting surface of the support mount when the replaceable holding block is mounted to the support mount; wherein the replaceable holding block defines a third fastener opening and a fourth fastener opening; and wherein the first fastener opening, the second fastener opening, the third fastener opening, the fourth fastener opening, and the tooth opening of the replaceable holding block have center axes that are parallel.

19. The replaceable holding block of claim 18, wherein the front face of the replaceable holding block includes a first portion through which the first, second, third, and fourth fastener openings of the replaceable holding block extend and a second portion through which the tooth opening extends, the first portion being recessed relative to the second portion.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a surface excavation machine incorporating reducing elements, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(2) FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of a portion of the surface excavation machine shown in FIG. 1 showing a drum with reducing elements, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(3) FIG. 3 illustrates a side perspective view of the drum shown in FIG. 2;

(4) FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a reducing element mounting apparatus that can be mounted to the drum shown in FIG. 2;

(5) FIG. 5 illustrates a back perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(6) FIG. 6 illustrates a side perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(7) FIG. 7 illustrates a rear perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(8) FIG. 8 illustrates a top perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(9) FIG. 9 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(10) FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4 with a replaceable holding block detached;

(11) FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 10;

(12) FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 11 with a reducing element detached;

(13) FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 12 with elongated anchors removed from a support mount, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(14) FIG. 14 illustrates a front perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 4;

(15) FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the reducing element mounting apparatus of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15;

(16) FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 15;

(17) FIG. 17 illustrates a top view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 13;

(18) FIG. 18 illustrates a side perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(19) FIG. 19 illustrates an exploded view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 18;

(20) FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 18;

(21) FIG. 21 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 18, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(22) FIG. 22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the replaceable holding block FIG. 21 taken along line 22-22;

(23) FIG. 23 illustrates a top view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 21;

(24) FIG. 24 illustrates a method of replacing the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 10;

(25) FIG. 25 illustrates a method of replacing a reducing element, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(26) FIG. 26 illustrates a method of replacing an insert, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(27) FIG. 27 illustrates a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(28) FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(29) FIG. 29 is a right side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(30) FIG. 30 is a left side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(31) FIG. 31 is a top view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(32) FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(33) FIG. 33 is a front view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(34) FIG. 34 is a rear view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 27;

(35) FIG. 35 illustrates a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block including an insert, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(36) FIG. 36 is a bottom perspective view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(37) FIG. 37 is a right side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(38) FIG. 38 is a left side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(39) FIG. 39 is a top view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(40) FIG. 40 is a bottom view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(41) FIG. 41 is a front view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(42) FIG. 42 is a rear view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 35;

(43) FIG. 43 illustrates a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

(44) FIG. 44 is a bottom perspective view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(45) FIG. 45 is a right side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(46) FIG. 46 is a left side view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(47) FIG. 47 is a top view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(48) FIG. 48 is a bottom view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(49) FIG. 49 is a front view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(50) FIG. 50 is a rear view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 43;

(51) FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus that can be mounted to the drum shown in FIG. 2;

(52) FIG. 52 illustrates a front perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(53) FIG. 53 illustrates a rear perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(54) FIG. 54 illustrates a right side perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(55) FIG. 55 illustrates a left side perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(56) FIG. 56 illustrates a top perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(57) FIG. 57 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(58) FIG. 58 illustrates a bottom view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 51;

(59) FIG. 59 illustrates a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus that can be mounted to the drum shown in FIG. 2;

(60) FIG. 60 illustrates a front perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(61) FIG. 61 illustrates a rear perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(62) FIG. 62 illustrates a right side perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(63) FIG. 63 illustrates a left side perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(64) FIG. 64 illustrates a top perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(65) FIG. 65 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(66) FIG. 66 illustrates a bottom view of the reducing element mounting apparatus shown in FIG. 59;

(67) FIG. 67 illustrates an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus with a replaceable holding block detached from a support mount;

(68) FIG. 68 illustrates an enlarged view of the replaceable holding block shown in FIG. 67; and

(69) FIG. 69 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view showing a positional relationship of the replaceable holding block to the support mount shown in FIG. 67.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(70) FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a surface excavation machine 20, which could be in the form of an operator-controlled or an autonomous excavation machine, that includes a tractor 22 having a main chassis 24 (i.e., a mainframe) including a front end 26 and a rear end 28. The main chassis 24 is supported on a ground drive system (i.e., a propulsion system) that can include multiple propulsion structures, such as wheels or tracks 30, for propelling the surface excavation machine 20 over the ground. An operator cab 32 is positioned at a top side of the main chassis 24. An excavation tool 34 is mounted at the rear end 28 of the main chassis 24. The excavation tool 34 includes an excavation drum 36 that is rotatably driven (e.g., by hydraulic motors) about a drum axis 38. The excavation drum 36 carries multiple reducing elements 40 (e.g., teeth, pic, chisels,) suitable for cutting rock or another hard, mineral-based material (e.g., asphalt, concrete). The excavation drum 36 can, for example, be mounted to a boom that can be pivoted between a lowered excavation position (see FIG. 1) and a raised transport position (not shown). A shroud 42 at least partially surrounds/encloses the excavation drum 36. In other embodiments the excavation drum 36 may not be boom mounted. For example, the excavation drum 36 may be mounted beneath the main chassis 24.

(71) In use of the surface excavation machine 20, the surface excavation machine 20 is moved to an excavation site, while the excavation tool 34 is in the transport position. When it is desired to excavate at the excavation site, the excavation tool 34 is lowered from the transport position to the excavation position (see FIG. 1). While in the excavation position, the excavation drum 36 is rotated in a direction 44 about the axis 38 such that the excavation drum 36 uses a down-cut motion to remove a desired thickness T of material. During the excavation process, the tracks 30 propel the surface excavation machine 20 in the forward direction 46, thereby causing a top layer of material having a thickness T to be excavated. As the surface excavation machine 20 moves in a forward direction 46, the reducing elements 40 dig into the material under the excavation drum 36, leaving behind excavated/comminuted material. Example excavation applications for which the surface excavation machine 20 can be used include surface mining, road milling, terrain leveling, construction preparation and other activities. In other examples, the excavation drum 36 can be configured to excavate using an up-cut motion.

(72) Referring to FIGS. 2-3, front and side perspective views of the excavation drum 36 is shown including a plurality of the reducing elements 40. The reducing elements 40 define a tip diameter D.sub.1 and a base diameter D.sub.2. The tip diameter D.sub.1 is the outer most diameter of the reducing elements 40, measured from a tip of the reducing elements 40. The base diameter D.sub.2 is the inner most diameter of the reducing elements 40 measured from a base of the reducing elements 40. The distance between the tip diameter D.sub.1 and the base diameter D.sub.2 can generally define the maximum height of the reducing elements 40 when mounted on the drum. In one example, the distance between the tip diameter D.sub.1 and the base diameter D.sub.2 can be from about 12 inches to about 18 inches. It is to be understood that the distance between the tip diameter D.sub.1 and the base diameter D.sub.2 can vary with other embodiments. (e.g., based upon scaling of various models, materials processed, etc.)

(73) In one example, the excavation drum 36 has a gap X.sub.1 between the tip diameter D.sub.1 of the reducing elements 40 and the shroud 42 of the surface excavation machine 20. The reducing elements 40 may be configured in a variety of sizes or diameters. The size or diameter of the reducing elements 40 may be constructed such that the reducing elements 40 do not interfere with the frame of the surface excavation machine 20 when mounted to the excavation drum 36 and rotated thereon. In one example, the gap X.sub.1 can be about 3 inches. It is to be understood that the gap X.sub.1 can vary in other embodiments. (e.g., based upon scaling of various models, materials processed, etc.) In certain examples, the excavation drum 36 can have a cutting angle. The cutting angle can be defined by the reducing elements' 40 arcuate path of travel on the excavation drum 36. The reducing elements 40 are illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIGS.

(74) Referring to FIGS. 4-9, perspective views of an example reducing element mounting apparatus 48 are shown. The reducing element mounting apparatus 48 includes a replaceable holding block 50 and a support mount 52. The replaceable holding block 50 is shown mounted to the support mount 52. In the depicted example, the reducing element 40 is secured to the replaceable holding block 50. In one example, the support mount 52 can be integrated with or coupled to the excavation drum 36 to secure the reducing element mounting apparatus 48 thereon. In some examples, the replaceable holding block 50 can be mounted on the excavation drum 36 at an acute cutting angle (see FIG. 6). In one example, the acute cutting angle can be greater than 30 degrees but less than 60 degrees. The support mount 52 can be secured to the excavation drum 36 or chain by various attachment processes, such as, but not limited to, welding. The support mount 52 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIG. 13.

(75) Referring to FIG. 10, the replaceable holding block 50 is shown detached from the support mount 52. The replaceable holding block 50 can have a main body 54 including a front face 56, a rear face 58 (e.g., first support face), and a bottom face 60 (e.g., second support face). In one example, the front face 56, rear face 58, and bottom face 60 each can have a planar surface (e.g., portion). In one example, the rear face 58 can be adapted to face toward the support mount 52 when the replaceable holding block 50 is mounted on the support mount 52, as shown in FIG. 4.

(76) Referring to FIG. 11, the replaceable holding block 50 includes a first block fastener 62 (e.g., a bolt, screw) and a second block fastener 64 (e.g., a bolt, screw) with threaded ends. The first and second block fasteners 62, 64 can be used to secure the replaceable holding block 50 to the support mount 52. In the depicted example, the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 are shown removed from the replaceable holding block 50. The main body 54 of the replaceable holding block 50 defines a first fastener opening 66 and a second fastener opening 68 for receiving the first and second block fasteners 62, 64, respectively, when the replaceable holding block 50 is mounted to the support mount 52. The first and second fastener openings 66, 68 can extend through the main body 54 of the replaceable holding block 50 from the front face 56 to the rear face 58. In the depicted example, the replaceable holding block 50 can include caps 70 for covering the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 when fastened or inserted in the first and second fastener openings 66, 68. The replaceable holding block 50 is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 16-17.

(77) Referring to FIG. 12, the reducing element 40 is depicted as a tooth having a leading tip 72 supported on a base 74. In other examples, the reducing element 40 may include or otherwise define a cutter, a pick, a chisel, a blade, a ground engaging tooling device, or other type of cutting/grinding/comminuting device. In certain examples, the leading tip 72 can be harder than the base 74. For example, the leading tip 72 can be a solid, carbide insert while the base 74 can be hardened steel. The reducing element 40 further includes a shoulder 76, a shaft 78 (e.g., shank), and a circumferential groove 80. The shoulder 76 extends radially outwardly from the base 74 and has a cross-dimension larger than a maximum cross-dimension of the base 74. The shaft 78 extends axially from the shoulder 76 of the reducing element 40 and has a narrower cross-dimension than that of the shoulder 76. The shaft 78 of the reducing element 40 may further include an inwardly tapered section along the shaft 78. The reducing elements 40 are constructed to fit into mounting structures (e.g., see replaceable holding block 50) that are integrated with or otherwise coupled to drums or chains by the support mount 52 used to carry the reducing element 40 during material reducing applications. The reducing element 40 is designed to be readily replaceable, while the support mount 52 is not intended to be replaced frequently.

(78) In certain examples, the reducing elements 40 are removably mounted to the excavation drum 36. For example, the reducing elements 40 can be fastened within mounting structures such as the replaceable holding block 50. The replaceable holding block 50 includes a reducing element (e.g., tooth) opening 82 (e.g., cylindrical tool mounting aperture) that extends through the replaceable holding block 50 from the front face 56 to the rear face 58. In the depicted example, the replaceable holding block 50 is shown with the reducing element 40 removed therefrom. The reducing element 40 can be removeably secured to the replaceable holding block 50 at the reducing element opening 82. The reducing element 40 can be removed from the replaceable holding block 50 without detaching the replaceable holding block 50 from the drum/mount. Thus, the reducing element 40 can be replaced independent of the replaceable holding block 50 if the tooth is worn and the replaceable holding block 50 is not worn. Also, the replaceable holding block 50 can readily be replaced when worn. The replaceable holding block 50 and the reducing element 40 can also be detached from the drum as a unit by removing the replaceable holding block 50 from the drum without detaching the reducing element 40 from the replaceable holding block 50. Thus, the reducing element 40 is carried with the replaceable holding block 50.

(79) In one example, the replaceable holding block 50 includes an insert 84 having a front ring 86 and a shaft 88. The insert 84 defining an opening 90 located at the front ring 86. The insert 84 can be mounted within the reducing element opening 82 such that the reducing element opening 82 receives the shaft 88 of the insert 84. In certain examples, the opening 90 of the insert 84 can receive the shaft 78 of the reducing element 40 when the reducing element 40 is mounted to the replaceable holding block 50 such that a head 92 of the reducing element 40 rests upon the front ring of the insert 84. In some examples, a wear indicator 87 (e.g., an indicia such as a projection or notch that wears away over time) is provided on the front ring 86.

(80) In other examples, a reducing element retention clip 94 can be used to retain the reducing element 40 in place and allow for easy replacement of the reducing element 40 by hand. The reducing element retention clip 94 can be configured to fit within the circumferential groove 80 of the reducing element 40 to secure the reducing element 40 within the replaceable holding block 50 (see FIG. 7). The reducing element retention clip 94 helps to secure the reducing element 40 within the replaceable holding block 50 by preventing the reducing element 40 from sliding out of the replaceable holding block 50. The reducing element retention clip 94 can rotate with the reducing element 40 relative to the replaceable holding block 50.

(81) Referring to FIG. 13, the support mount 52 is shown including a base 96 that mounts to the excavation drum 36, a block mounting surface 98, a first side 100 and a second side 102. The first and second sides 100, 102 extend between the base 96 and the block mounting surface 98. In one example, the support mount 52 defines a first fastener opening 104 and a second fastener opening 106 that extend into the support mount 52 from the block mounting surface 98 toward the base 96. The first and second fastener openings 104, 106 can have open ends 108, 110 at the block mounting surface 98. The support mount 52 includes a stop face 61 adapted to support the bottom face 60 of the replaceable holding block 50 when the replaceable holding block 50 is mounted to the support mount 52. The support mount 52 includes rib structures 63 that can help add abrasive resistant or wear resistance to the support mount 52.

(82) In certain examples, the support mount 52 can also define a first anchor opening 112 and a second anchor opening 114 that extend between the first and second sides 100, 102 and that respectively intersect the first and second fastener openings 104, 106. The first and second anchor openings 112, 114 can have open ends 116, 118 at one or both of the first and second sides 100, 102.

(83) In one example, the rear face 58 can be adapted to face toward the block mounting surface 98 when the replaceable holding block 50 is mounted at the support mount 52. The first and second fastener openings 66, 68 of the replaceable holding block 50 can be aligned with the first and second fastener openings 104, 106 of the support mount 52 when the replaceable holding block 50 is mounted to the block mounting surface 98.

(84) In certain examples, the support mount 52 can include a first elongated anchor 120 and a second elongated anchor 122 respectively positioned within the first and second anchor openings 112, 114 of the support mount 52. The first elongated anchor 120 can define a first internally threaded opening 124 that is configured to align with the first fastener opening 104 of the support mount 52. The second elongated anchor 122 can define a second internally threaded opening 126 that is configured to align with the second fastener opening 106 of the support mount 52.

(85) Referring to FIGS. 14-15, a front perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the reducing element mounting apparatus 48 is shown. In one example, the first block fastener 62 can extend through the first fastener opening 104 of the support mount 52 and the first fastener opening 66 of the replaceable holding block 50 and thread into the first internally threaded opening 124 of the first elongated anchor 120. The second block fastener 64 can extend through the second fastener opening 106 of the support mount 52 and the second fastener opening 68 of the replaceable holding block 50 and thread into the second internally threaded opening 126 of the second elongated anchor 122.

(86) As shown in FIGS. 14-15, the replaceable holding block 50 can have a width W. The reducing element 40 can include a flange that rest upon the replaceable holding block 50 when mounted thereon. The flange of the reducing element 40 can have a diameter d.sub.f. In certain examples, the width W of the replaceable holding block 50 is no more than 1.5 times as large as the flange diameter d.sub.f. It is to be understood that the flange diameter d.sub.f to width W ratio may vary in other embodiments.

(87) In some examples, the reducing element mounting apparatus 48 can define a cutting tip height H. The cutting tip height can include the radial distance of the tip of the reducing element 40 from an outer circumference of the base 96a. In certain examples, the height H can be at least 2, 2.5, or 3 times as large as the width W of the replaceable holding block 50. It is understood that the height H to width W ratio may vary in other embodiments.

(88) In FIGS. 16-17, the first and second fastener openings 66, 68 of the replaceable holding block 50 each include a first portion 128 having a first diameter D.sub.3 and a second portion 130 having a second diameter D.sub.4. In the depicted example, the first diameter D.sub.3 is larger than the second diameter D.sub.4. The reducing element opening 82 can have a diameter D.sub.5. In certain examples, the first diameter D.sub.3 of the first portion 128 of the first and second fastener openings 66, 68 are less than 3 times the diameter D.sub.5 of the reducing element opening 82. In other examples, the first diameter D.sub.3 of the first portion 128 of the first and second fastener openings 66, 68 can be within 3 inches of the diameter D.sub.5 of the reducing element opening 82.

(89) The first portions 128 can extend from the front face 56 of the replaceable holding block 50 to the second portions 130. The second portions 130 can extend from the first portions 128 to the rear face 58 of the replaceable holding block 50. In some examples, the rear face 58 of the replaceable holding block 50 defines a channel 132 that can receive at least a front portion 134 (see FIG. 12) of the support mount 52. In one example, the channel 132 is defined by parallel rails 136 that overlap the first and second sides 100, 102 of the support mount 52 such that the front portion 134 of the support mount 52 nests within the channel 132.

(90) As shown in FIG. 17, the replaceable holding block 50 can have a length L. The length L can be at least 2, 2.5, or 3 times as large as the width W. Referring again to FIG. 16, in one example the width W can be no more than 2 times as large as the diameter D.sub.5 of the reducing element opening 82. In other examples, the width W can be no more than 3 times as large as the first diameter D.sub.3 of the first portion 128 of the first and second fastener openings 66, 68. In certain examples, the width W can be no more than 4 times as large as the second diameter D.sub.4 of the second portion 130 of the first and second fastener openings 66, 68.

(91) In one example, the reducing element opening 82 can have a center axes of C.sub.1, the first fastener opening 66 can have a center axes of C.sub.2, and the second fastener opening 68 can have a center axes of C.sub.3 that are parallel. The center axes C.sub.1, C.sub.2, and C.sub.3 can be referred to respectively as centerlines. The centerlines C.sub.1, C.sub.2, and C.sub.3 of the first fastener opening 66, the second fastener opening 68, and the reducing element opening 82 can be aligned along a common plane P. In certain examples, the first fastener opening 66 of the replaceable holding block 50 is positioned between the second fastener opening 68 of the replaceable holding block 50 and the reducing element opening 82.

(92) In other examples, a center-to-center spacing S.sub.1 can exists between the first and second fastener openings 66, 68 of the replaceable holding block 50. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.1 is about 3 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.1 may vary with other embodiments. A center-to-center spacing S.sub.2 can exists between the first fastener opening 66 of the replaceable holding block 50 and the reducing element opening 82. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.2 is about 3 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.2 may vary with other embodiments. A center-to-center spacing S.sub.3 can exists between the reducing element opening 82 and the second fastener opening 68 of the replaceable holding block 50. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.3 is about 6 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.3 may vary with other embodiments.

(93) In one example, each of the front face 56, rear face 58, and bottom face 60 can have planar surfaces. The first fastener opening 66 can be adjacent to the reducing element opening 82 that extend through the main body 54 from the front face 56 to the rear face 58. The second fastener opening 68 can be adjacent to both the first fastener opening 66 and the bottom face 60. The bottom face 60 can extend from the front face 56 to the rear face 58.

(94) In other examples, the first and second fastener openings 66, 68 can be parallel to the centerline C.sub.1 of the reducing element opening 82. The centerline C.sub.3 of the second fastener opening 68 can be spaced from the centerline C.sub.1 of the reducing element opening 82. In one example, the space can be less than the diameter D.sub.5 of the reducing element opening 82. It is to be understood that the space may vary with other embodiments. The centerline C.sub.2 of the first fastener opening 66 can be positioned mid-point between the second fastener opening 68 and the reducing element opening 82.

(95) Referring to FIG. 18, an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus 48a is shown including a replaceable holding block 50a that is mounted to a support mount 52a. The replaceable holding block 50a includes a reducing element 40. Many of the features and concepts for the replaceable holding block 50a and the support mount 52a are similar to the replaceable holding block 50 and the support mount 52 described above. As such, the description for the replaceable holding block 50 and the support mount 52 is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for the replaceable holding block 50a and the support mount 52a.

(96) Referring to FIG. 19, the replaceable holding block 50a is shown detached from the support mount 52a. The replaceable holding block 50a can have a main body 54a including a front face 56a, a rear face 58a (e.g., first support face), and a bottom face 60a (e.g., second support face). In one example, the front face 56a, rear face 58a, and bottom face 60a each can have a planar surface (e.g., portion). In one example, the rear face 58a can be adapted to face toward the support mount 52a when the replaceable holding block 50a is mounted on the support mount 52a as shown in FIG. 18.

(97) Referring to FIG. 20, the front face 56a of the replaceable holding block 50a includes a first part 138 (e.g., recessed portion) through which the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a extend and a second part (e.g., raised portion) 140 through which the reducing element opening 82a extends. As shown, the first part 138 is recessed relative to the second part 140, or, conversely, the second part 140 may be considered to be raised relative to the first part 138. The height differential provided by the first and second parts 138, 140 of the replaceable holding block 50a can eliminate the need for the insert 84 shown in FIGS. 12-13. Whereas the insert 84 is used to provide the height spacing in the replaceable holding block 50, this height differential is inherently built into the replaceable holding block 50a.

(98) As shown in FIG. 23, the replaceable holding block 50 can have a width W.sub.a. The reducing element 40 shown in FIG. 20 can include a flange that rest upon the replaceable holding block 50 when mounted thereon. The flange of the reducing element 40 can have a flange diameter d.sub.fa. In certain examples, the width W.sub.a of the replaceable holding block 50 is no more than 1.5 times as large as the flange diameter d.sub.fa. It is to be understood that the flange diameter d.sub.fa to width W.sub.a ratio may vary in other embodiments.

(99) In some examples, the reducing element mounting apparatus 48a can define a cutting tip height H.sub.a. The cutting tip height can include the radial distance of the tip of the reducing element 40 from an outer circumference of the base 96a. In certain examples, the height H.sub.a can be at least 2, 2.5, or 3 times as large as the width W.sub.a of the replaceable holding block 50a. It is understood that the height H.sub.a to width W.sub.a ratio may vary in other embodiments.

(100) Turning again to FIG. 19, the replaceable holding block 50a includes a first block fastener 62 (e.g., a bolt, screw) and a second block fastener 64 (e.g., a bolt, screw) with threaded ends. The first and second block fasteners 62, 64 can be used to secure the replaceable holding block 50a to the support mount 52a. In the depicted example, the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 are shown removed from the replaceable holding block 50a. The main body 54a of the replaceable holding block 50a defines a first fastener opening 66a and a second fastener opening 68a for receiving the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 when the replaceable holding block 50a is mounted to the support mount 52a. The first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a can extend through the main body 54a of the replaceable holding block 50a from the front face 56a to the rear face 58a. In the depicted example, the replaceable holding block 50a can include caps 70 for covering the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 when fastened or inserted in the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a. The replaceable holding block 50a is illustrated and described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 20-23.

(101) The support mount 52a is shown including a base 96a that can mount to the excavation drum 36, a block mounting surface 98a, a first side 100a and a second side 102a. The first and second sides 100a, 102a extend between the base 96a and the block mounting surface 98a. In one example, the support mount 52a defines a first fastener opening 104a and a second fastener opening 106a that extend into the support mount 52a from the block mounting surface 98a toward the base 96a. The first and second fastener openings 104a, 106a can have respective open ends 108a, 110a at the block mounting surface 98a. The support mount 52 includes a stop face 61a adapted to support the bottom face 60a of the replaceable holding block 50a when the replaceable holding block 50a is mounted to the support mount 52a. The support mount 52a includes rib structures 63a (e.g., hard-facing) that can help add abrasive resistant or wear resistance to the support mount 52a.

(102) In certain examples, the support mount 52a can also define a first anchor opening 112a and a second anchor opening 114a that extend between the first and second sides 100a, 102a and that respectively intersect the first and second fastener openings 104a, 106a. The first and second anchor openings 112a, 114a can have open ends 116a, 118a at one or both of the first and second sides 100a, 102a.

(103) In one example, the rear face 58a can be adapted to face toward the block mounting surface 98a when the replaceable holding block 50a is mounted at the support mount 52a. The first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a can be aligned with the first and second fastener openings 104a, 106a of the support mount 52a when the replaceable holding block 50a is mounted to the block mounting surface 98a.

(104) In certain examples, the support mount 52a can include a first elongated anchor 120a and a second elongated anchor 122a respectively positioned within the first and second anchor openings 112a, 114a of the support mount 52a. The first elongated anchor 120a can define a first internally threaded opening 124a that is configured to align with the first fastener opening 104a of the support mount 52a. The second elongated anchor 122a can define a second internally threaded opening 126a that is configured to align with the second fastener opening 106a of the support mount 52a.

(105) Referring to FIGS. 21-22, a front bottom perspective view and a cross-sectional view of the reducing element mounting apparatus 48a is shown. In one example, the first block fastener 62 can extend through the first fastener opening 104a of the support mount 52a and the first fastener opening 66 of the replaceable holding block 50a and thread into the first internally threaded opening 124a of the first elongated anchor 120a. The second block fastener 64 can extend through the second fastener opening 106a of the support mount 52a and the second fastener opening 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a and thread into the second internally threaded opening 126a of the second elongated anchor 122a.

(106) Referring to FIG. 22, the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a each include a first portion 128a having a first diameter D.sub.3a and a second portion 130a having a second diameter D.sub.4a. In the depicted example, the first diameter D.sub.3a is larger than the second diameter D.sub.4a. The reducing element opening 82a can have a diameter D.sub.5a. In certain examples, the first diameter D.sub.3a of the first portion 128a of the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a are less than 3 times the diameter D.sub.5a of the reducing element opening 82a. In other examples, the first diameter D.sub.3a of the first portion 128a of the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a can be within 3 inches of the diameter D.sub.5a of the reducing element opening 82a.

(107) The first portions 128a can extend from the front face 56a of the replaceable holding block 50a to the second portions 130a. The second portions 130a can extend from the first portions 128a to the rear face 58a of the replaceable holding block 50a. In some examples, the rear face 58a of the replaceable holding block 50a defines a channel 132a that can receive at least a front portion 134a (see FIG. 19) of the support mount 52a. In one example, the channel 132a is defined by parallel rails 136a (see FIG. 23) that overlap the first and second sides 100a, 102a of the support mount 52a such that the front portion 134a of the support mount 52a nests within the channel 132a.

(108) As shown in FIGS. 22-23, the replaceable holding block 50a can have a length L.sub.a. The length L.sub.a can be at least 2, 2.5, or 3 times as large as the width W.sub.a. In one example the width W.sub.a can be no more than 2 times as large as the diameter D.sub.5a of the reducing element opening 82a. In other examples, the width W.sub.a can be no more than 3 times as large as the first diameter D.sub.3a of the first portion 128a of the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a. In certain examples, the width W.sub.a can be no more than 4 times as large as the second diameter D.sub.4a of the second portion 130a of the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a.

(109) Referring to FIG. 23, the reducing element opening 82a can have a center axes of C.sub.1a, the first fastener opening 66a can have a center axes of C.sub.2a, and the second fastener opening 68a can have a center axes of C.sub.3a that are parallel. The center axes C.sub.1a, C.sub.2a, and C.sub.3a can be referred to as the centerline. The centerlines C.sub.1a, C.sub.2a, and C.sub.3a of the first fastener opening 66a, the second fastener opening 68a, and the reducing element opening 82a can be aligned along a common plane P.sub.a. In certain examples, the first fastener opening 66a of the replaceable holding block 50a is positioned between the second fastener opening 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a and the reducing element opening 82a.

(110) In other examples, a center-to-center spacing S.sub.1a can exists between the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.1a is about 3 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.1a may vary with other embodiments. A center-to-center spacing S.sub.2a can exists between the first fastener opening 66a of the replaceable holding block 50a and the reducing element opening 82a. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.2a is about 3 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.2a may vary with other embodiments. A center-to-center spacing S.sub.3a can exists between the reducing element opening 82a and the second fastener opening 68a of the replaceable holding block 50a. In one example, the center-to-center spacing S.sub.3a is about 6 inches. It is to be understood that the center-to-center spacing S.sub.3a may vary with other embodiments.

(111) In certain examples, each of the front face 56a, rear face 58a, and bottom face 60a can have planar surfaces. The first fastener opening 66a can be adjacent to the reducing element opening 82a that extend through the main body 54a from the front face 56a to the rear face 58a. The second fastener opening 68a can be adjacent to both the first fastener opening 66a and the bottom face 60a. The bottom face 60a can extend from the front face 56a to the rear face 58a.

(112) In other examples, the first and second fastener openings 66a, 68a can be parallel to the centerline C.sub.1a of the reducing element opening 82a. The centerline C.sub.3a of the second fastener opening 68a can be spaced from the centerline C.sub.1a of the reducing element opening 82a. In one example, the space can be less than the diameter D.sub.5a of the reducing element opening 82a. It is to be understood that the space may vary with other embodiments. The centerline C.sub.2a of the first fastener opening 66a can be positioned mid-point between the second fastener opening 68a and the reducing element opening 82a.

(113) The present disclosure is designed to enhance operation with a top-down cutting system. For example, the relatively narrow widths, high stand-off heights and angles of attack of the reducing element mounts assists in efficient ground penetration thereby generating relatively large chunks of material during surface mining. This arrangement is particularly suited for top-down cutting and results in less material being reprocessed by the drum such that fewer fines are generated during excavation. This excavation process can therefore be more efficient since the excavated material left behind the machine during excavation has not been overly processed by the drum. Replaceable holding blocks in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can have relatively high length to width ratios to complement excavating systems having tall standoffs and narrow widths. In some examples, such replaceable holding blocks ideally complement top-down cutting systems. Although this disclosure is designed and optimized for top down cutting, it will be appreciated that this design may also work in an up-cutting scenario.

(114) FIG. 24 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 250 of replacing the replaceable holding block 50. In this example, the method 250 includes operations 252, 254, 256, 258, and 260.

(115) The operation 252 is performed to remove plugs 70 in order to provide access to bolts 62 and 64. Examples of plugs 70 are shown and described with reference to FIG. 13.

(116) The operation 254 is performed to remove the bolts 62, 64. In one example, the bolts 62 and 64 can be removed by using a tool. Examples of the bolts 62 and 64 are shown and described with reference to FIG. 13.

(117) The operation 256 is performed to freely lift the replaceable holding block 50 from the support mount 52 once the bolts 62, 64 are removed. An example of the replaceable holding block 50 is shown and described with reference to FIGS. 10-11.

(118) The operation 258 is performed to fasten a new replaceable holding block on the support mount 52. The new replaceable holding block can have the same features as described above. An example of the fastening operation is attaching the replaceable holding block to the support mount with bolts. It is appreciated that other fastening operations can also be used. The bolts can be torqued to a specified value to create a secure attachment. These bolts can have the same features as the bolts described herein.

(119) The operation 260 is performed to place the plugs 70 over the bolts. The plugs 70 can be new plugs or recycled plugs. In certain examples, the threads on the first and second elongated anchors 120, 122 may become damaged. In such situations, the anchors 120, 122 can be replaced with new ones. Unlike traditional designs where damaged threads would require replacement of the support mount 52, only the anchors 120, 122 need be replaced which can reduce significant cost and downtime.

(120) FIG. 25 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 350 of replacing the reducing element 40. In this example, the method 350 includes operations 352, 354, 356, and 358.

(121) The operation 352 is performed to remove the reducing element retention clip 94. The removal of the reducing element retention clip 94 allows for hand removal of the reducing element 40. An example of the reducing element retention clip 94 is shown and described with reference to FIG. 7.

(122) The operation 354 is performed to remove the reducing element 40 from the insert 84. An example of the reducing element 40 is shown and described with reference to FIGS. 3-4.

(123) The operation 356 is performed to install a new reducing element. The new reducing element can be installed into the insert 84 along with the retention clip 94. In some examples, a reducing element 40 can have material packed between the reducing element 40 and the insert 84. The packed material may cause the removal of the reducing element 40 to be more difficult. In such situations, a reducing element removal tool may be used to push the reducing element 40 out of the insert 84. The reducing element removal tool can be used to push the reducing element 40 out from the back side of the support mount 52.

(124) The operation 358 is performed to reinstall the reducing element retention clip 94. The reducing element retention clip 94 can be a new clip or a recycled clip.

(125) FIG. 26 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 450 of replacing the insert 84. The wear indicator 87 on the front ring 86 of the insert 84 can be worn out such that the insert 84 needs to be replaced. In this example, the method 450 includes operations 452, 454, 456, 458, and 460.

(126) The operation 452 is performed to detect the wear status of the insert 84. An operator can visually determine the wear status of the insert 84 by viewing the wear indicator 87. Once the wear indicator 87 on the insert 84 has been worn away the operator can then replace the insert 84. An example of the insert 84 is shown and described with reference to FIG. 12.

(127) The operation 454 is performed to detach the replaceable holding block 50 from the support mount 52.

(128) The operation 456 is performed to push the worn insert 84 out of the replaceable holding block 50.

(129) The operation 458 is performed to replace a new insert into the replaceable holding block 50. The new insert is pushed into the replaceable holding block 50.

(130) The operation 460 is performed to install the replaceable holding block 50 having the new insert back on the support mount 52 which can be attached to the excavation drum 36.

(131) Referring to FIGS. 27-34, multiple views of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block 50b is shown. FIGS. 27-34 show the replaceable holding block 50b having many of the same features as the replaceable holding block 50a shown in FIGS. 19-23.

(132) The replaceable holding block 50b includes a main body 54b that defines a reducing element opening 82b, a first fastener opening 66b, and a second fastener opening 68b that have many of the same features as described above. In one example, the replaceable holding block 50b can include an integrally formed post 502 (e.g., projection) that may be positioned between the first and second fastener openings 66b, 68b of the replaceable holding block 50b. In certain examples, the post 502 may be a separate piece that can be pressed fit into an aperture of the replaceable holding block. It will be appreciated that the post 502 can be used on any of the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the replaceable holding blocks 50, 50a can include the post 502. Further, any of the replaceable holding blocks described below can include a post.

(133) In one example, the post 502 can extend outwardly into the recessed channel 132b of the replaceable holding block 50b. The post 502 can be received in an opening defined by the support mount upon mounting the replaceable holding block 50b on the support mount. In certain examples, the post 502 can help to resist lateral and/or axial movement of the replaceable holding block 50b while mounted to the support mount. The post 502 provided additional shear strength or reinforcement to help prevent relative movement along a rear face 58b of the replaceable holding block 50b. In some examples, the post 502 can help to prevent bolts from shearing off due to lateral or axial movement and reduce slippage between the replaceable holding block 50b and the support mount.

(134) In other examples, the replaceable holding block 50b may include a wear resistant hard facing composition 504 (e.g., reinforcement structure). The hard facing composition 504 may be of a variety of types, including tungsten carbide granules or particles in an alloy steel matrix. The matrix binder may contain iron, nickel, cobalt and their alloys. Because of its extra thickness on top, hard facing 504 may be applied in multiple passes, but without allowing the earlier passes to cool substantially. The hard facing composition 504 may have a thickness measured along the top sides of the replaceable holding block 50b and the front thereof. It will be appreciated that the hard-facing composition 504 may be removed and/or added to other select areas of the replaceable holding block 50b.

(135) Referring to FIG. 30, the replaceable holding block 50b includes a first part 138a (e.g., recessed portion) through which first and second fastener openings 66, b, 68b extend and a second part (e.g., raised portion) 140a through which the reducing element opening 82b extends. As shown, the first part 138a is recessed relative to the second part 140a, or, conversely, the second part 140a may be considered to be raised relative to the first part 138a. The height differential provided by the first and second parts 138a, 140a of the replaceable holding block 50b can eliminate the need for the insert 84 shown in FIGS. 12-13.

(136) Referring to FIGS. 35-42, multiple views of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block 50c having an insert 84 is shown. FIGS. 35-42 show the replaceable holding block 50c having many of the same features as the replaceable holding block 50 shown in FIGS. 11-13.

(137) The replaceable holding block 50c includes a main body 54c that defines a first fastener opening 66c and a second fastener opening 68c that have many of the same features as described above. In one example, the replaceable holding block 50c can include the integrally formed post 502 as previously described with reference to FIGS. 28-34. In this example, the hard-facing composition 504 can be applied along the top sides of the replaceable holding block 50c and the front thereof. It will be appreciated that the hard-facing composition 504 may be removed and/or added to other select areas of the replaceable holding block 50c.

(138) FIGS. 43-50 show multiple views of an alternate embodiment of a replaceable holding block 50d. In this example, the replaceable holding block 50d is shown without the insert 84. The replaceable holding block 50d includes a main body 54d that defines a reducing element opening 82d, a first fastener opening 66d, and a second fastener opening 68d that have many of the same features as described above. In the depicted example, the reducing element opening 82d has a smaller diameter opening for mounting a reducing element directly into the reducing element opening 82d. In this example, no insert is needed.

(139) In certain examples, the first and second fastener openings 66d, 68d can each include two notches 506 to help assist in the removal of the caps 70 that protect the bolt head. In one example, the two notches 506 may be evenly spaced around the first and second fastener openings 66d, 68d such that the two notches 506 are positioned on opposite sides of the first and second fastener openings 66d, 68d. In certain examples, the notches 506 may permit the insertion of a hand tool, such as, but not limited to, a screwdriver, for which additional leverage may be applied to the cap 70 to be removed.

(140) The replaceable holding block 50d can include the hard-facing composition 504. For example, the hard-facing composition 504 can be applied along the top sides of the replaceable holding block 50c and the front thereof. It will be appreciated that the hard-facing composition 504 may be removed and/or added to other select areas of the replaceable holding block 50c.

(141) It has been determined that support for lateral loading can be an issue for the reducing element mounting apparatus. In certain loading situations, a side or lateral load can be applied to a reducing element. The lateral loading can cause the mounting apparatus to twist or torque which can result in a bending load being applied to the bolts. Without the proper support the bolts can fail due to the side or lateral loading. The following embodiments have been shown to improve support for lateral/side loading.

(142) Referring to FIGS. 51-58, an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus 48b that can be mounted to a drum. The reducing element mounting apparatus 48b can include a replaceable holding block 50e and a support mount 52b. The replaceable holding block 50e is shown mounted to the support mount 52b. It will be appreciated that the replaceable holding block 50e can interface with the support mount 52b in any way previously described. Thus, the backside of the replaceable holding block 50e and the mating features of the support mount 52b can be configured similarly to those described in previous embodiments.

(143) In the depicted example, the reducing element 40 is secured directly into the replaceable holding block 50e. In other examples, the replaceable holding block 50e may include an insert for mounting the reducing element 40 as shown in FIG. 35. In one example, the support mount 52b can be integrated with or coupled to the excavation drum 36 to secure the reducing element mounting apparatus 48b thereon. The support mount 52b is shown including a base 96b that can mount to the excavation drum 36.

(144) In certain examples, the replaceable holding block 50e can be secured to the support mount 52b with an attachment mechanism that includes a plurality of bolts 508 (e.g., block fasteners). The replaceable holding block 50e can include pass-through holes (e.g., non-threaded holes, fastener openings) for receiving the bolts 508. The bolts 508 can go through the pass-through holes in the replaceable holding block 50e and be threaded into recessed threaded holes in the support mount 52b. In other examples, the support mount 52b may include a cross-pin configuration like that shown in FIG. 13 where there are two anchor openings for receiving elongated anchors. In the depicted example, four bolts 508 are positioned offset from the center of the replaceable holding block 50e to help provide for increased lateral support during loading.

(145) In one example, the four bolts 508 can respectively extend through first, second, third, and fourth fastener openings of the replaceable holding block 50e similar to the first and second block fasteners 62, 64 described above in order to mount the replaceable holding block 50e on the support mount 52b. The four bolts 508 can help to direct clamping forces toward outer edges of the replaceable holding block 50e away from the centerline such that bending of the bolts 508 is limited due to lateral or axial movement. In other words, the four bolts 508 can help to provide a robust hold during a variety of loading situations and limit pivoting, twisting or torque caused by a side or lateral load being applied to the reducing element. This may also minimize the bending load that can otherwise be applied to the bolts It will be appreciated that other methods may be used to help offset pressure at the center of the replaceable holding block, such as, but not limited to, a relief cut formed in the bottom of the replaceable holding block as shown in FIGS. 67-69.

(146) Referring to FIGS. 59-66, an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus 48c that can be mounted to a drum is depicted. The reducing element mounting apparatus 48c can include a replaceable holding block 50f and a support mount 52c. The replaceable holding block 50f is shown mounted to the support mount 52c. In the depicted example, the replaceable holding block 50f defines a reducing element (e.g., tooth) opening 82e. In one example, the support mount 52c can be integrated with or coupled to the excavation drum 36 to secure the reducing element mounting apparatus 48c thereon. The support mount 52c is shown including a base 96c that can mount to the excavation drum 36. Similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 51-58, four bolts 508 can be used to secure the replaceable holding block 50f to the support mount 52c.

(147) Referring to FIG. 62, the replaceable holding block 50f includes a first part 138b (e.g., recessed portion) through which the four bolts 508 extend and a second part (e.g., raised portion) 140b through which a reducing element 40 extends through the reducing element opening 82e. As shown, the first part 138b is recessed relative to the second part 140b, or, conversely, the second part 140b may be considered to be raised relative to the first part 138b. The height differential provided by the first and second parts 138b, 140b of the replaceable holding block 50f can eliminate the need for the insert 84 shown in FIGS. 12-13.

(148) Referring to FIGS. 67-69, an alternate embodiment of a reducing element mounting apparatus 48d that can be mounted to a drum is shown. The reducing element mounting apparatus 48d can include a replaceable holding block 50g and a support mount 52d. The replaceable holding block 50g is shown detached from the support mount 52d. The replaceable holding block 50g includes a first block fastener 62 (e.g., a bolt, screw) and a second block fastener 64 (e.g., a bolt, screw) with threaded ends. The first and second block fasteners 62, 64 can be used to secure the replaceable holding block 50g to the support mount 52d.

(149) In certain examples, a rear face 58c of the replaceable holding block 50g defines a channel 132c that can receive at least a front portion 134b of the support mount 52d. In one example, the channel 132c is defined by parallel rails 136c that overlap the first and second sides 100b, 102b of the support mount 52d such that the front portion 134b of the support mount 52d nests within the channel 132c.

(150) In one example, the channel 132c can define a recess 510 to alleviate pressure in the middle of the replaceable holding block 50g during loading. It will be appreciated that the recess 510 can be used in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the replaceable holding blocks 50, 50a-g can each include a recess. The recess 510 can help direct clamping forces out to each side of the replaceable holding block 50g away from the middle or centerline.

(151) Referring to FIG. 69, a schematic cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship of the channel 132c and the recess 510 is depicted. The recess 510 helps to limit the contact forces between the replaceable holding block 50g and the support mount 52d to a clamping region 512 adjacent to each of the parallel rails 136c. Thus, the recess 510 provides a space or a non-clamping region to maximize the capability of the reducing element mounting apparatus 48d to resist twisting or torque caused by a side or lateral load being applied to the reducing element, and in this way can minimize the bending load that is otherwise applied to the bolt.

(152) From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident that modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.