Abstract: The paper analyzed and compared several common position detection methods of cutting head of boom-type roadheader, and obtained following conclusions: the position detection method based on rotation encoder is easy to install on existing structure of roadheader, it is a mature detection method, but it is difficult to protect on-site; the position detection method based on oil cylinder stroke has small space, less maintenance quantity, but it needs redesign existing driving oil cylinder, and has high reliability requirements on the oil cylinder. The conclusion has certain reference significance to position detection of slewing mechanism of mining equipment.