Regardless of the type of aggregate equipment you own, the end goal of all producers is the same – to increase the number of tonnes produced per man hour. While performance varies depending on the quality of the manufacturer and the experience of the producer, we’ve given you five key ways to optimise your crushing capacity.
KNOW YOUR MACHINE
There are a number of variables that can affect crushing capacity, including liner choices, consistent or inconsistent feed, crusher speed, closed side setting, crushing circuit capacity and adherence to maintenance schedules. Understanding your specific application is key to optimising production. Is your equipment too small, or even too big? Employing the correct equipment for the job is vital to optimum production.
SELECT THE CORRECT LINER
Using the wrong liner for the application will result in a number of problems, including poor production, poor material product quality, unfavourable output gradation and immature or uneven liner wear. To select the correct liner for your application, ask your manufacturer’s application engineers or check Astec’s handy Facts & Figures Reference Guide. For more information, visit www.kpijci.com
CHOKE FEED THE CRUSHER
{{image2-a:r-w:250}}It’s important to choke feed your crusher – in other words, always keep it full of material. By choke feeding your cone crusher, your equipment will run smoother and provide more even liner wear, better product quality (shaping) and the most efficient use of power. Installing the wrong liners can prevent your machine running at choke feed, as well as potentially overloading the machine.
ADJUST CRUSHER SPEED
A slower crusher speed typically favours coarse crushing applications and results in increased capacity, increased power consumption and a coarser output gradation. More revolutions per minute typically favours fine crushing application and retains material in the crushing chamber longer, resulting in reduced capacity, reduced power consumption and a finer output gradation. Although each liner configuration was designed to operate at a recommended speed, sometimes actual material conditions will warrant exceptions. When in doubt, consult with the factory.
MAINTENANCE
It’s often preached but too often ignored. The only way to secure high uptime is to adhere to a schedule of preventative maintenance. By understanding your machine and conducting regular pre-start checks, you will not only extend the life of your machine but also increase production. Follow factory guidelines for maintenance schedules.
By keeping these strategies in mind, you will optimise your production and improve your bottom line. And don’t forget to reconsider your complete system now you have increased your crushing capacity. Larger screens and conveyors may be needed to handle the increase in material production.
Astec Australia is a market leader in providing condition-based maintenance solutions to the Australian crushing industry. As specialists in crushing and screening equipment, the Astec Response Service Promise provides:
• Availability of parts and 24/7 access to experienced people.
• Determination to listen and understand a customer’s business.
• Service that adds value to a business.
• Parts pricing customers don’t pay extra for.
Paul Smith is the international marketing manager for the Astec Aggregate & Mining Group.