For quarry operators comparing crushing plant proposals in the 100-300 tph range, capacity is often the first number that catches the eye. One supplier quotes 150 tph, another 200 tph and a third 250 tph. It can be tempting to see the highest figure as the strongest proposal. In practice, that is not always the best place to start. By Ma Junxin, Zhengzhou Zhongji Machinery.
Spillage in the loading zone of a belt conveyor can significantly increase operating costs from both efficiency and safety standpoints. One of the main sources of spillage is the weight of the cargo causing the belt to sag between idlers, creating gaps. Air pressure in the transfer chute pushes dust and fines through these gaps, fouling idler bearings and mechanical components and causing them to fail and require replacement. By Andrew Timmerman, Global Engineering Manager – R&D, Martin Engineering.