Conveyors play a crucial role in a crusher unit, facilitating the efficient movement of raw materials, crushed products, and waste throughout the crushing process. Here’s a breakdown of their functions and types in a typical crusher setup:
1. Functions of Conveyors in a Crusher Unit
– Feed Material Transport: Deliver raw materials (e.g., rocks, ore) from the feed hopper to the crusher.
– Intermediate Transfer: Move crushed material between crushers (e.g., primary to secondary crusher).
– Product Discharge: Transport finished crushed product (e.g., aggregates) to storage or further processing.
– Recycling Oversize Material: Return oversized material from screens back to the crusher for re-crushing.
– Waste Removal: Carry away non-crushable debris or undersized material for disposal.
2. Types of Conveyors Used
# (a) Belt Conveyors
– Most common in crusher units due to durability and efficiency.
– Used for horizontal or inclined transport of bulk materials.
– Equipped with rubber belts reinforced with steel/fabric for heavy loads.
# (b) Apron Feeders (Heavy-Duty Conveyors)
– Used for feeding large, abrasive materials into primary crushers (e.g., jaw/gyratory crushers).
– Made of steel pans or plates for high impact resistance.
# (c) Vibrating Feeders
– Regulate material flow into the crusher to prevent overloading.
– Ideal for handling sticky or irregularly shaped feed material.
# (d) Screw Conveyors
– Used for f or powdery materials (less common in hard-rock crushing).
# (e) Stacker Conveyors
– For stockpiling crushed products after final screening.
3. Key Components & Safety Features
– Idlers & Pulleys: Support and guide conveyor belts.
– Skirting & Dust Control: Minimize spillage and airborne dust.
– Emergency Stop Systems: Safety mechanisms to halt operations if needed.
– Metal Detectors/Magnets: Remove tramp metal that could damage crushers.
4. Common Challenges & Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|——-|———|
| Belt misalignment | Install self-aligning idlers