Let’s start by understanding what a jaw crusher is. And how it works? A jaw crusher is a type of crusher that is used to break large rock materials into smaller pieces in a crushing operation. It is essential equipment, especially in the demolition, construction, and mining industries. Using the jaw crusher properly to ensure safety and efficiency requires specific steps that you should follow.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Basics of a Jaw Crusher
It is crucial to understand a jaw crusher’s basics even before learning how it works. The jaw crusher, just like any other machine, contains components that enable it to perform its functions. The essential elements of a jaw crusher are the jaw plates that allow the device to break down material.
How it works is very simple, one of the plates starts to move towards the other at an angle to generate compression, and the reduction enables the materials to break down. It is essential to note that one jaw is fixed, and the other is movable. The movable jaw exerts pressure on the materials against the stationary plate, resulting in the desired final product of particles.
Conduct a Pre-Operation Check
When operating the jaw crusher, always ensure safety. It is advisable to conduct a pre-operation check; it aims to check and confirm that every component is in proper working condition. I have a list of some of the reviews you should take a look at:
Inspect the machine:
It means thoroughly checking all the components to see if they are in excellent condition. Examples of the features include guards, belts, and safety devices. The idea is to look for any wear and tear that make cause disruption to the crushing operation.
Check the Lubrication:
You don’t need to be told that lubrication is vital for the smooth operation of the jaw crusher because most machines require lubrication; therefore, a jaw crusher is the same.
Inspect the electrical connections:
If not checked properly, the electrical contacts of a jaw crusher can affect its efficiency.
Verify the Jaw plates:
The jaw plates being the main components can undergo wear and tear. Jaws that are worn out reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of the machine. It is essential to check the jaws for any signs of tearing.
Testing of emergency stops:
As the point states, testing the emergency stops is vital before the jaw crusher starts its operation. Ensure that the buttons are in a location of easy access.
How to Operate the Jaw Crusher?
After completing all the steps of pre-operation, it’s time to start operating the jaw crusher. The following steps are essential to follow for a safe and effective operation. They include:
Start-up Sequence:
Some components should start running first before others. For example, create the conveyor belts and feeder first. The next step is to switch up the crusher to gain momentum or come up to speed before any material is fed into the jaw crusher. The approach is gradual but prevents any strain on the motor or any other component of the jaw crusher.
Feeding the Crusher:
Providing a continuous flow of materials into the crusher is essential. Some of the actions to avoid is overloading the jaw crusher.
Control of the Feed Size:
The feed size controls the efficiency and the jaw crusher’s capacity. For an excellent crushing operation, it is essential to ensure that the material feed is within a specific size range.
Clearing Jams:
During the crushing process, some materials get stuck; the best solution is to stop the jaw crusher immediately and use specific tools to remove the jams. An important note is never to remove stuck items with your bear arms.
Adjusting the Discharge Setting:
It is essential to note that the discharge setting determines the end product’s size. Changing it enables the operator to compensate for the wearing action of the plate. Adjusting the discharge setting is done following the guidelines of the manufacturer.
Regular Maintenance:
Ensure regular inspections of the jaw crusher to prevent any breakdowns during operation.
What are the Safety Precautions?
Nothing in this life lacks risk; therefore, the situation is the same when it comes to a jaw crusher. It is very crucial to observe safety precautions when using the jaw crusher throughout the entire operation. We got some safety tips from crusher manufacturers to follow:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): It is mandatory to wear PPE; some PPE items include ear protection, safety glasses, and boots with steel toes.
Isolation Procedures: When performing maintenance, the jaw crusher can accidentally start up. To prevent such a scenario, perform isolation procedures.
Training: Crushing operations cannot occur under one personnel’s watch. It is essential to train other personnel who are operating the jaw crusher. Ensure to promote a culture of understanding the types of equipment.
View more steps and best practices to follow when operating a jaw crusher.
Conclusion
Some effects of using the jaw crusher properly are productivity and efficiency. These effects can only succeed when you understand the fundamentals and follow the correct operation procedures.
