Impact crushers use impact force – as the name implies – to crush rocks and minerals into smaller sizes as opposed to pressure force used in, for example, jaw crushers.
Two types of impact crushers exist. These are the horizontal shaft impactor (HSI) and the vertical shaft impactor (VSI). HSI crushers are the more common of the two types and can be used in primary or secondary crushing applications and construction and demolition waste recycling. VSI crushers are typically used in secondary or tertiary crushing applications to produce a much finer end product.
The basic working principle of an impact crusher is that material is fed into a high-speed rotating turntable, which flings the material around at high speeds between a series of spinning hammers and the impact wall. The numerous collisions taking place inside the impact chamber causes the material to break apart. Upon reaching the specified size, the crushed material will be discharged.
Pros
Impact crushers are capable of delivering a much more homogenous, consistent and cubical end product. This makes impact crushers favourable when the final result needs to be a saleable commodity.
Moreover, impact crushers can be highly efficient. They also use comparatively low energy compared with other crushers types. Impact crushers are also quite versatile and can process a variety of different materials, including concrete, soft rock, hard rock, gravel and even asphalt.
They tend to have a fairly large feed inlet and sizeable crushing chamber and, if used with less abrasive materials, can lead to an economical and reliable crushing operation. Additionally, impact crushers have a high reduction ratio.
Cons
Impact crushers typically require more maintenance than compression style crushers – especially if crushing hard and abrasive materials. This is because the material in an impact crusher is constantly colliding within the crusher at high velocities to break the rock apart. This contributes to much wear and tear, although modern wear-resistant materials have made impact crushers more popular.
When crushing very soft materials, excess fines can be produced. This contributes to more potential dust pollution as well, which can be an occupational health and safety concern if not mitigated through the implementation of dust control measures.
For impact crushers to suit your needs, contact Mormak today. We have all manner of crushers for sale and rent, depending on what your project requires.