Underground Mobile Crushers for Sale: A Market Overview and Practical Guide
For mining operations seeking to enhance productivity and reduce haulage costs in underground environments, mobile crushers represent a proven, capital-intensive solution. In short, the current market for underground mobile crushers is dominated by a few key manufacturers—primarily Sandvik and Metso—and the decision to purchase one is driven entirely by specific mine geometry, ore characteristics, and the long-term cost per ton of material moved. A buyer is not simply purchasing a machine; they are integrating a system that fundamentally alters the mine’s material handling flow.
Why Mobile Crushing Underground?
The primary economic justification for an underground mobile crusher is the reduction of haulage distance. In block caving or sublevel stoping operations, the ore must be moved from the drawpoint to a central dumping point or skip shaft. The further the truck has to travel, the higher the operating cost per ton. By placing a mobile crusher closer to the production face, the mine can use smaller, more maneuverable LHDs (Load-Haul-Dump vehicles) to feed the crusher, rather than running large dump trucks long distances. The crushed material is then conveyed or skipped to the surface. This “crush and convey” strategy is well-documented in industry literature as a method to lower ventilation requirements (smaller diesel engines) and reduce tire wear and fuel consumption.
Available Equipment and Specifications
The market for used and new underground mobile crushers is not vast, but it is specialized. The most common configurations are jaw crushers and cone crushers, mounted on tracked or wheeled chassis.
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Sandvik UJ310 and UJ440i: These are among the most frequently listed units in the secondary equipment market. The UJ440i, for example, is a heavy-duty jaw crusher designed for high-capacity applications. It features a CJ412 jaw crusher with a feed opening of 1200 x 830 mm (approx. 47 x 33 inches). When searching for used units, common wear items to inspect include the jaw dies, the main frame condition, and the hydraulic system for the adjustable setting. Sandvik’s literature emphasizes that their units are designed to be relocated via a low-profile trailer or crawler system within the mine drift.
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Metso (now Metso Outotec) Lokotrack LT106 and LT120: While the Lokotrack series is often associated with surface quarrying, the LT106 is frequently adapted for underground use, particularly in limestone or softer ore applications. It uses a Nordberg C106 jaw crusher. For underground sale, these units are often modified with dust suppression systems, specialized lighting, and remote control capabilities. A critical check point for a used underground Lokotrack is the condition of the undercarriage (tracks) due to the abrasive, often wet floor conditions.
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Specialized Underground Crushers: Some manufacturers produce crushers specifically for underground gyratory applications, but these are typically massive, semi-fixed installations (e.g., Sandvik’s CG series or Metso’s Superior MK-II). True mobile gyratory crushers for underground use are rare due to their height. Most mobile units in the 50-100 ton range are jaw or impact crushers.
Key Considerations Before Purchase
Based on data from mining equipment dealers and operational case studies (e.g., publications from the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration), a buyer should evaluate several factors:
- Drift Dimensions: The crusher must physically fit through the mine access drifts. Most underground mobile crushers are designed with a low transport height (typically under 3.5 meters). The unit’s turning radius is equally critical.
- Power Supply: Most units are diesel-hydraulic. However, some mines prefer fully electric units to eliminate diesel particulate matter. If buying diesel, check for compliance with local emissions standards (e.g., MSHA in the US).
- Feed Size and Closed Side Setting (CSS): The crusher must match the LHD bucket size. If the LHD can deliver 800mm rocks, the crusher feed opening must be at least that wide. The CSS determines the final product size, which directly impacts conveyor belt life and skip loading efficiency.
- Availability of Parts: This is the most common pitfall. Sandvik and Metso support their equipment globally, but for older models (e.g., a 2008 UJ310), sourcing wear parts like liners and cheek plates can become expensive and slow. Always verify the manufacturer’s current support status for the specific model.
Market Pricing and Sourcing
Pricing for used underground mobile crushers is highly variable. A well-maintained 2015 Sandvik UJ440i can range from $350,000 to $600,000 USD, depending on hours, wear status, and included conveyors. Older units (pre-2010) often sell for under $200,000 but may require significant rebuilds. Listings can be found on specialized heavy equipment platforms (MachineryTrader, Ritchie Bros, IronPlanet) and mining-specific brokers like A.M. King Industries or Savona Equipment. It is standard practice to commission a third-party inspection, including a compression test on the diesel engine and a crack-detection test on the main crusher frame.
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An underground mobile crusher is a tactical asset. It is not a solution for every mine, but for operations with long haul distances and the need for flexible, relocatable crushing, it offers a clear path to lower unit costs. The market is dominated by Sandvik and Metso units, and due diligence on drift dimensions, power source, and parts availability is non-negotiable. A properly selected used crusher, integrated with a consistent maintenance plan, can provide a decade or more of reliable service.