Allis Chalmers 13 36 Cone Crusher: Specifications, Applications, and Maintenance Guide

Key Features and Technical Specifications of the Allis Chalmers 13 36 Cone Crusher

• Robust Main Shaft Assembly: The Allis Chalmers 13 36 cone crusher features a heavy-duty forged steel main shaft, engineered to withstand high crushing forces and deliver consistent performance under continuous load. This component ensures long service life and operational reliability in primary and secondary crushing stages.

• Advanced Crushing Chamber Design: Utilizing a deep, symmetrical crushing cavity with optimized cavity profile, the unit achieves high throughput and uniform product size distribution. The chamber design facilitates efficient reduction ratios up to 6:1, making it suitable for hard rock and abrasive feed materials.

• Hydraulic Adjustment and Overload Protection: Integrated hydraulic tramp release and adjustment systems allow real-time setting changes and automatic clearance restoration during overload events. This feature minimizes downtime and protects critical components from damage due to non-crushable materials.

• Eccentric Assembly with Precision Bearings: The crusher employs a precision-machined eccentric sleeve and high-load spherical roller bearings, ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear. The assembly is lubricated via a forced-feed oil system with continuous filtration and temperature monitoring.

• Drive System Configuration: Powered by a standard 150 to 200 HP electric motor, the drive utilizes multiple V-belts and sheaves to transmit torque efficiently. The design accommodates variable speed drives for fine-tuning output capacity and product gradation.

• Structural Frame and Base: Constructed from high-tensile steel, the robust frame absorbs vibration and maintains alignment under dynamic loads. The modular base design simplifies installation and integration into existing crushing circuits.

• Maintenance Accessibility: The unit incorporates swing-out counterweight and accessible lubrication points, enabling efficient inspection and component replacement. Wear parts, including manganese steel mantles and concave liners, are designed for rapid changeout to reduce maintenance cycle time.

These technical attributes collectively position the Allis Chalmers 13 36 as a durable, high-performance solution for aggregate, mining, and recycling operations requiring consistent size reduction and minimal operational disruption.

Performance and Crushing Capabilities in Aggregate and Mining Operations

• Designed for robust performance in aggregate and mining environments, the Allis Chalmers 13 36 Cone Crusher delivers consistent reduction and high-volume throughput across primary and secondary crushing stages. Its gyratory motion and optimized cavity design enable efficient size reduction of hard and abrasive materials such as granite, basalt, and iron ore, making it a reliable asset in stationary and portable crushing circuits.

• The crusher features a 36-inch diameter mantle and a robust main shaft engineered to withstand sustained high-stress operations. With a maximum feed size of approximately 4.5 inches (115 mm) and an adjustable closed-side setting ranging from 0.625 to 2.5 inches (16–63 mm), the unit accommodates a broad spectrum of reduction requirements. Typical output capacity ranges between 120 to 300 tons per hour, depending on feed gradation, material density, and setting configuration.

• Crushing force is generated through a combination of eccentric motion and hydraulic tramp relief, allowing the machine to handle occasional uncrushable material without structural damage. The hydraulic system enables quick clearing of chamber blockages and adjustment of crushing settings under load, minimizing downtime and enhancing operational continuity.

• In mining applications, the 13 36 model excels in processing run-of-mine ore where consistent product gradation and minimal fines generation are critical. In aggregate production, it produces well-shaped, cubical particles suitable for high-specification concrete and asphalt applications. Wear parts—including the manganese steel mantle and concave—are designed for extended service life and are readily replaceable, reducing long-term operational costs.

• Performance is further enhanced by precise alignment of the eccentric assembly and optimized speed-torque characteristics of the drive system. Regular monitoring of liner wear, feed distribution, and discharge consistency ensures sustained efficiency. When operated within recommended parameters and fed uniformly via a controlled feed system, the crusher maintains peak productivity while reducing stress on critical components.

• The unit’s durability in abrasive and high-moisture environments is supported by effective sealing mechanisms that protect the internal bearing assembly from contaminant ingress. This contributes to longer intervals between maintenance activities and increased mean time between failures.

Common Applications Across Quarrying, Mining, and Construction Industries

• Primary crushing of hard rock in open-pit mining operations
• Secondary and tertiary crushing in aggregate production for road base and concrete
• Processing of granite, basalt, limestone, and other abrasive feed materials
• High-capacity reduction in metal mining for copper, iron ore, and gold circuits
• Controlled size reduction in recycled construction materials, including concrete and asphalt

The Allis Chalmers 13 36 Cone Crusher is engineered for durability and consistent performance across high-demand industrial environments. Its robust design supports continuous operation in quarrying, mining, and construction applications where throughput, product shape, and operational efficiency are critical. The machine’s ability to deliver uniform, cubical product makes it especially valuable in aggregate production, meeting stringent specifications for infrastructure projects.

In quarrying, the crusher is commonly deployed in secondary or tertiary stages to refine material after initial jaw crushing. It excels in reducing feed sizes ranging from 3 to 6 inches down to 3/8 inch or finer, depending on closed-side setting (CSS) and configuration. Its gyratory motion and high compression force ensure efficient size reduction of abrasive rock types, minimizing wear while maintaining output quality.

Within mining operations, the 13 36 serves as a reliable reduction unit in comminution circuits. It is particularly suited for processing sulfide and oxide ores where consistent product gradation improves downstream recovery in grinding and flotation stages. The crusher’s sealed lubrication system and heavy-duty eccentric assembly allow sustained operation under variable feed conditions and high moisture content.

In the construction industry, the unit supports recycling applications by processing demolition debris. Its adjustability enables operators to switch between product gradations efficiently, accommodating fluctuating job requirements. Additionally, modular components simplify integration into portable and semi-mobile crushing plants, enhancing deployment flexibility across remote and urban sites.

Across all sectors, the Allis Chalmers 13 36 delivers proven reliability, low maintenance intervals, and long service life when operated within recommended parameters. Its compatibility with standard conveyor systems and feeders further enhances integration into existing workflows, making it a strategic asset in material processing chains.

Maintenance Best Practices to Maximize Uptime and Equipment Longevity

• Conduct daily visual inspections of all external components, focusing on the crusher housing, lubrication lines, and drive belts for signs of wear, leaks, or misalignment. Address anomalies immediately to prevent cascading failures.

• Adhere strictly to the recommended lubrication schedule using only ISO VG 220 or equivalent circulating oil meeting the manufacturer’s thermal and viscosity specifications. Monitor oil temperature continuously; sustained operation above 50°C indicates insufficient cooling or overloading and requires immediate investigation.

• Maintain consistent lubricant cleanliness by replacing filters at 500-hour intervals or sooner in high-dust environments. Perform quarterly oil analysis to detect metallic particulates, water contamination, or viscosity degradation—early indicators of bearing or gear distress.

• Inspect the mantle and concave liner wear at minimum weekly intervals under standard operating conditions; increase frequency under high-throughput or abrasive feed scenarios. Replace liners when wear reaches 50% of original thickness to avoid metal-to-metal contact and structural damage.

• Ensure proper cavity clearance settings are maintained per feed material and desired output gradation. Misadjusted settings induce uneven wear, increase power draw, and reduce throughput efficiency.

• Torque all head nut and base fasteners to specified values (refer to OEM documentation) during scheduled shutdowns every 2,000 operating hours. Vibration-induced loosening is a leading cause of catastrophic component failure.

• Monitor drive belt tension monthly using a calibrated tension gauge. Replace belts in matched sets to maintain load balance and prevent premature pulley wear.

  

• Keep the hydraulic adjustment and relief system calibrated and responsive. Test cavity clearing and overload release functions bi-weekly to ensure rapid, reliable operation during blockage events.

• Maintain clean, unobstructed ventilation paths around the crusher and lubrication system radiators. Dust accumulation impedes heat dissipation and accelerates oil degradation.

• Document all maintenance activities, component replacements, and operational anomalies in a centralized log. Trend data over time to transition from reactive to predictive maintenance strategies.

• Train maintenance personnel on OEM procedures and safety protocols for lockout/tagout, confined space entry, and high-pressure hydraulic systems. Competency directly correlates with equipment reliability and personnel safety.

  

Implementing these practices consistently ensures maximum uptime, extends the service life of critical components, and preserves the operational integrity of the Allis Chalmers 13 36 Cone Crusher under demanding crushing conditions.

Finding Replacement Parts and Upgrades for the Allis Chalmers 13 36 Model

• Source replacement parts exclusively from OEM-approved suppliers or reputable aftermarket manufacturers specializing in Allis Chalmers crusher components to ensure dimensional accuracy, material integrity, and compatibility with the 13 36 model. Critical wear components—such as mantle, bowl liner, spider bushing, eccentric sleeve, and counterweight—must meet or exceed original specifications in metallurgical composition and heat treatment to maintain crushing efficiency and machine longevity.

• The mantle and bowl liner, typically fabricated from Mn13Cr2 or Mn18Cr2 high-manganese steel, are subject to accelerated wear under high-compression conditions. Replacement intervals depend on feed material hardness, feed gradation, and operational hours. Monitor wear patterns regularly; asymmetric wear may indicate misalignment or improper choke feeding. Replacement should only proceed after verifying proper crusher setup and alignment to prevent premature failure.

• For upgrades, consider modern metallurgical enhancements such as alloy-modified manganese steels or composite liners offering improved work-hardening characteristics. Some operators transition to modular liner designs for faster changeouts and reduced downtime, though fitment must be validated against the 13 36’s head and frame geometry.

• Bearings and seals demand particular attention. The main shaft and eccentric bearings are precision-machined components; replacements must match original tolerances. Use only high-load, spherical roller bearings rated for heavy-duty cyclic loading. Seal upgrades incorporating dynamic labyrinth or dual-lip configurations reduce grease contamination and extend bearing life, particularly in abrasive or wet environments.

• Drive system components—including sheaves, V-belts, and motor mounts—are prone to wear and misalignment. Replace belts in matched sets to ensure load distribution, and inspect sheave grooves for wear. Upgrading to notched or synchronous belts can improve power transmission efficiency and reduce slippage.

• Maintain a documented inventory of high-failure-rate spares: toggle plates (if applicable), shear pins, hydraulic seals, and retaining rings. For legacy models such as the 13 36, lead times for certain components may be extended; proactive sourcing is advised.

• Consult technical drawings and serial-number-specific service manuals when ordering parts, as minor design revisions occurred throughout the production run. Engage suppliers with verified access to Allis Chalmers archives or reverse-engineered CAD models to confirm compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

The Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher features a 36-inch diameter mantle and a 13-inch stroke, designed for medium to fine crushing applications. It typically delivers a feed capacity of up to 150 tons per hour, depending on material density and gradation. The crusher operates with a closed-side setting (CSS) range of approximately ¾ inch to 3 inches and utilizes a robust eccentric design for continuous duty in aggregate and mining operations.

How does the Allis Chalmers 13-36 compare to modern cone crushers?

While the Allis Chalmers 13-36 was a pioneering machine in its era, modern cone crushers offer superior automation, better liner profiles, higher throughput efficiency, and reduced maintenance intervals. Contemporary models from companies like Sandvik, Metso, and Terex incorporate hydraulic adjustment and overload protection systems not found in the 13-36, making them more operator-friendly and productive by today’s standards.

What type of material is best processed by the Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

The 13-36 excels at crushing hard and abrasive materials such as granite, basalt, and river rock. It is commonly used in secondary or tertiary crushing stages in aggregate production and mining applications. Ideal feed material should be pre-screened to stay within the maximum recommended size of 3–4 inches to prevent overloading and maintain consistent product gradation.

What maintenance procedures are critical for extending the life of an Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

Routine maintenance includes daily inspection of oil levels and lubrication system performance, checking for abnormal vibration or noise, and inspecting mantle and concave wear regularly. Monthly inspections should involve checking the eccentric bushing, spherical seat contact, and adjusting the spindle clearance. Proper lubrication with high-quality EP oils and timely replacement of worn liners are essential for maximizing uptime and reducing catastrophic failure risks.

Are replacement parts still available for the Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

Yes, although Allis Chalmers ceased production decades ago, specialized manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers produce compatible wear parts such as manganese steel mantles and concaves. Some rebuild shops also offer refurbished main shaft assemblies, eccentric sleeves, and bronze bushings. It’s advisable to source parts from vendors with casting certifications and proper metallurgical testing to ensure longevity and performance consistency.

How can I optimize the productivity of an Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

To optimize productivity, maintain proper choke feeding to ensure consistent material flow and reduce liner wear. Adjust the closed-side setting based on desired final product size and monitor the power draw to avoid overloading the drive system. Pairing the crusher with an efficient screening system and ensuring regular calibration of feeders enhances aggregate quality and overall circuit efficiency.

What drive system was used in the Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

The 13-36 typically used a standard AC electric motor ranging from 150 to 200 HP, connected via V-belts to a sheaved eccentric shaft. Correct belt tension and alignment are critical for efficient power transmission and minimizing vibration. Upgrading to modern high-efficiency motors and using matched sheave ratios can improve reliability without altering the crusher’s core design.

What are common failure points in the Allis Chalmers 13-36, and how can they be prevented?

Common failure points include eccentric bushing wear, mantle breakage from improper installation, and spherical seat damage due to inadequate lubrication. Prevention involves strict adherence to OEM lubrication specifications, regular inspection of the contact surfaces, and using torque wrenches during reassembly. Installing vibration monitoring systems can also help detect imbalance or misalignment early.

Can the Allis Chalmers 13-36 be upgraded with hydraulic adjustment systems?

While not originally equipped with hydraulics, retrofit kits are available from third-party engineering firms to implement hydraulic tramp release and adjustment systems. These upgrades improve safety by allowing unblocking during iron passage and enable faster setting changes. However, structural modifications must be performed by qualified engineers to maintain frame integrity and load ratings.

What is the typical mantle and concave life for an Allis Chalmers 13-36 under normal operating conditions?

Under standard operating conditions with properly fed, non-abrasive rock, mantles and concaves can last between 500 to 1,200 hours. Life expectancy varies significantly based on feed gradation, moisture content, and CSS settings. Using high-manganese steel liners and avoiding fines-rich feed material can extend wear life significantly.

How do I troubleshoot excessive vibration in an Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

Excessive vibration is often caused by unbalanced rotating components, worn eccentric bushings, misaligned drive belts, or loose foundation bolts. Begin by verifying that all hold-down bolts are torqued correctly and inspect the feed for tramp metal or non-crushables. Check the condition of the main shaft and spherical bearing surfaces; if wear exceeds manufacturer tolerances, disassembly and rebuild may be required.

Is it cost-effective to rebuild an old Allis Chalmers 13-36 cone crusher?

Rebuilding a 13-36 can be cost-effective if the main frame and base are intact. A full rebuild including new mantle, concave, eccentric assembly, and bushings typically costs 40–60% of a new equivalent-sized modern crusher. For operations with limited capital or using the crusher as backup, rebuilding remains a viable strategy—especially when paired with targeted upgrades like improved lubrication systems.