If you are a rock, sand, gravel or mineral processing industry veteran, you know that there are several different types and styles of crushing equipment. The exact crushers you need—jaw, cone, impact or gyratory—depend on the jobsite, the product you’re making, and how much you need to produce.

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An individual crusher’s construction and capabilities also dictate where in your processing operations it will fit. That is, you may have multiple types of crushers situated in primary, secondary and tertiary stations in a circuit format to perform the necessary material reduction work. Each type of crusher brings unique strengths and benefits to the process.

This article focuses on compression-style jaw crushers, which are most often employed in the primary stage of a crushing circuit. It’s important to know that cone crushers are sometimes used in their place, and we’ll also talk a little bit about when cone crushers may be preferred over jaw crushers. 

What is a Jaw Crusher?

Jaw crushers are sometimes also referred to as “rock breakers,” which speaks to their brute force. They are almost exclusively used as primary crushers because they excel at breaking up some of the largest and hardest materials into more manageable pieces for further reduction by different crushing equipment. Jaw crushers have a multitude of advantages, including:

• Ability to handle many different types of materials—from hard granite to reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and more—without displaying as much wear and tear as primary impact-style crushers.
• Typically output minimal fine materials and dust.
• More efficient than primary gyratory crushers.

Due to their smaller physical size, jaw crushers are also ideal for tight spaces, such as underground mining and mobile crushing applications, where some other primary crushing solutions do not fit.

What are the Different Types of Jaw Crushers? 

Jaw crushers have been around for nearly 200 years and are one of the most “historic” crusher types. Because of this, jaw crushers have undergone many technological advances through the years to become more durable and to improve their movement to reduce choking and increase operational speed. These design tweaks over time have perfected a machine that’s simple enough in its working principle that it may never become obsolete.

Today, two main jaw crusher configurations can be seen from the major equipment manufacturers. They differ based on how the swing jaw moves, though their output is similar.

Double Toggle—Blake Type or Overhead Pivot Movement

Double toggle movement jaw crushers like the Blake style (named for the inventor of the first successful mechanical jaw crusher, Eli Whitney Blake) have long been the standard for crushing hard and abrasive rocks, as well as sticky feeds. These jaw crushers have high energy-efficiency. The overhead pivot design further reduces wear and tear on crusher faces versus the Blake style.

Single Toggle—Overhead Eccentric Movement

More compact than double toggle designs, the single toggle movement jaw crusher was at one time unable to accept such large feed sizes, though it can typically run faster. Technological innovations solved the feed size issue, and now these machines are popular for how quickly they work. They do experience more wear and tear than the double toggle style crushers, but wear parts are widely available and economical.

How Does a Jaw Crusher Work?

Different jaw crusher designs will operate slightly differently, but how they work is similar across the board. All jaw crushers reduce large sized rocks ore, or other materials by a compression action. A fixed jaw, mounted in a V-shaped alignment, is the stationary breaking surface, while a movable, “swing” jaw exerts force on the feed material by pushing it against the stationary plate.

The space at the bottom of the V-aligned jaw plates is the output gap that dictates the size of the crushed product from the jaw crusher. The rock remains in the jaws until it is small enough to pass through the gap.

The video below created by SANDVIK illustrates how jaw crushers operate.

Which are Better: Jaw or Cone Crushers?

While jaw crushers may always be a smart primary crusher stage choice for many operations, it’s true that newer cone crushers are increasingly taking their place due to versatility. Cone crushers and jaw crushers both work by compression, reducing materials by squeezing them until they break apart.

The benefit that cone crushers offer over jaw crushers is their ability to output a more cubical product similar to impact crushers. Cone crushers have traditionally been used as secondary and sometimes tertiary crushing stations.

As far as answering whether one type of crusher is better than another, context is key. Everything comes down to what your production needs and goals are.

How Can I Find the Best Crushers for my Operations?

It’s true that crushers are customizable to help you extract material, break it down into usable product, and get it to market most economically and efficiently. The best way to find the right crushers for your unique operation is to work with a knowledgeable material handling solutions partner like Kemper Equipment.

The right partner can help you design a custom crushing circuit to boost your productivity and transform your operations.

The Complete Guide to Jaw Plates: 10 Essential Facts You Need to Know

 

 

In the mining and construction industries, the Jaw Crusher is a crucial piece of machinery used to crush raw materials into the desired size. Jaw Plates are a critical component of this equipment, playing an indispensable role. In this article, we will delve deep into Jaw Plates, including their various types, material selection, and how to extend their lifespan.

 

 

1. What is a Jaw Crusher ?

A jaw crusher is a mechanical crushing machine that uses a pair of jaws to crush raw materials, such as rocks, ore, and other aggregates, into smaller, more manageable pieces. It is a primary crusher used in various industries, including mining, construction, and recycling. The two jaws in a jaw crusher are typically one fixed jaw and one movable jaw. The material to be crushed is placed between these two jaws, and the movable jaw exerts force to compress and break the material. Jaw crushers are widely used for reducing the size of materials for further processing or disposal, and they come in various sizes and configurations to handle different types of materials and production requirements.

 

 

 

2. Where is A Jaw Crusher Used for ？

A jaw crusher is primarily used in the initial stage of the crushing process. It typically serves as the first crushing equipment in a crushing circuit, reducing raw materials from their initial size to smaller particle sizes. The main task of a jaw crusher is to compress and break down hard materials into sizes suitable for further processing, such as ores, rocks, minerals, stones, and construction debris.

 

Once raw materials have undergone the initial processing by a jaw crusher, they often move on to the next stage of crushing, such as a cone crusher or impact crusher, to further reduce particle size. Therefore, a jaw crusher plays a crucial role in industries like mining, construction, and quarrying, assisting in breaking down large chunks of raw materials into smaller segments for subsequent processing and production.

 

 

3. What Are Jaw Plates?

In the realm of jaw crushers, jaw plates take center stage. These unassuming components are two metal plates, one fixed and the other movable. Together, they work in harmony to squeeze and crush raw materials, reducing large chunks into smaller particles.

 

 

 

4. The Role of Jaw Plates

Jaw plates serve a dual purpose. First, they facilitate the crushing process by compressing and breaking down the raw materials, reducing their size. Secondly, they act as guardians, shielding vital components of the jaw crusher from wear and damage.

 

 

Operating Principle of Jaw Plates from M&C

 

 

5. What Shapes Do Jaw Plates Have？

Several different types of Jaw Plates are available, each suited for various applications and crushing requirements. In the following, we'll use the example of Metso® Nordberg® C Series™ jaw plates to explain how different shapes of jaw plates correspond to the application sites and the materials being crushed.

 

Jaw plates types from metso

 

Standard (XT710) and Super Grip (XT710) : Ideal for gravel and non-abrasive rock crushing, these types offer balanced power requirements and tooth spacing for fines removal, resulting in less slabby product. However, they have a reduced lifetime in abrasive applications.

 

Quarry (XT710, MX*): Suitable for abrasive or blasted rock, these jaw plates feature a flat tooth profile for extended lifetime, more wearable Mn-steel than standard jaws, and higher stresses and power requirements. Fines removal is crucial, but they may increase slabby product.

 

Superteeth (XT710): Suited for general use in gravel and blasted rock, these plates offer increased tooth contact surface area, more wear-resistant Mn-steel, and balanced power requirements, resulting in less slabby product.

 

Quarry Thick (XT710, MX*): These jaw plates are excellent for abrasive and/or blasted rock, featuring a 40mm thicker fixed jaw die for a longer lifetime, a flat tooth profile, more wearable Mn-steel, and higher stresses and power requirements. Fines removal is vital, but they may increase slabby product.

 

Quarry + Super Grip (XT710): Designed for blasted rock, difficult natural rock, and slippery rock, these plates have a sharp tooth profile for a good grip on the rock, balanced power requirements, ideal tooth spacing for fines removal, and less slabby product.

 

Quarry Thick + Super Grip (XT710): Similar to the Quarry + Super Grip type but with a thicker fixed jaw die for longer lifetime and balanced power requirements, these plates are suitable for challenging rock conditions.

 

Anti-Slab (XT710, MX*): These jaw plates have an uneven tooth height to reduce slabs in the feed material, resulting in less slabby product.

 

Coarse Corrugated Jaws: Offering improved material flow, better wear life, enhanced product quality, and incread production compared to regular jaw plates. These jaws are suitable for various applications.

 

6. What Materials Can Jaw Plates Be Made Of ?

 

 

 

The choice of material for jaw crusher plates depends on factors such as the type of material being crushed, the level of abrasiveness, and the crusher's intended application. Some common materials used for jaw plates include:

 

Manganese Steel: Manganese steel plates are widely used due to their excellent wear resistance and toughness. They are suitable for crushing materials with medium to high abrasiveness and are often used in quarries and mining operations.

High Chrome Iron: High chrome iron plates offer exceptional wear resistance, especially when dealing with highly abrasive materials like granite or basalt. They are commonly used in applications where the material being crushed is very abrasive.

 

Carbon Steel: Carbon steel plates are a cost-effective option and are typically used when the material being crushed is less abrasive, such as in recycling applications. While they may not offer the same level of wear resistance as manganese steel or high chrome iron, they are suitable for certain scenarios.

 

Tungsten Carbide: Tungsten carbide plates are known for their exceptional hardness and resistance to wear. They are typically used in applications where extreme wear resistance is required, such as in the mining industry.

 

Composite Materials: Some jaw plates are made from composite materials that combine the strengths of different materials to achieve the desired wear resistance and durability.

 

The choice of material for jaw plates is a critical decision, as it directly affects the performance and longevity of the jaw crusher. Selecting the right material depends on the specific crushing requirements and the type of material the crusher will process.

 

Stellar Heavy offers jaw plates personalized customization services to our customers. We can tailor the jaw plate material to meet the specific requirements of our customers, providing them with the most satisfactory service.

 

 

7. 10 Key Considerations for Choosing Jaw Plates

When it comes to selecting the right jaw plates for your jaw crusher, several critical factors should be considered to optimize efficiency and prolong operational life. Here are four essential elements to contemplate when making your jaw plate choice:

 

Crushed Material Characteristics: The nature of the material being crushed is a fundamental consideration. Different materials exhibit varying levels of abrasiveness and hardness, significantly impacting the durability and effectiveness of jaw plates. For instance, when dealing with tough and abrasive substances like granite or basalt, it's advisable to opt for jaw plates crafted from high chrome iron or manganese steel. In contrast, for less abrasive materials such as limestone or shale, cost-effective alternatives like carbon steel may prove suitable.The selection of jaw plate materials can be referred to in the sixth point of this article.

 

Crusher Model Specifics: Different jaw crushers have unique requirements regarding jaw plate shapes, dimensions, and mounting methods. It's crucial to ensure that the selected jaw plates are compatible with the specific crusher model, ensuring a seamless fit and superior performance. Some crushers utilize bolt-on jaw plates, while others employ a wedge-style mounting system. The choice of jaw plates should align with the distinctive design and demands of the crusher.

 

Chunlei Product Page

Intended Application: The intended application of the crusher also influences the jaw plate selection. For instance, when the crusher is used in applications involving large and abrasive materials, such as in quarry or mining operations, opting for jaw plates with high wear resistance, such as high chrome iron or manganese steel, is a prudent choice. Conversely, in recycling applications where materials are typically smaller and less abrasive, more budget-friendly alternatives like carbon steel may suffice.

 

Budget Considerations: The financial aspect of jaw plate replacement is a significant consideration. While materials like manganese steel or tungsten carbide may offer superior performance and extended longevity, they are often associated with higher costs. Striking a balance between your budget and the desired performance and lifespan of the jaw plates is a crucial part of the decision-making process.

 

Processing Capacity:The processing capacity of the crusher is a pivotal factor, determining the volume of material that can be efficiently processed per hour. It is imperative to select a capacity that aligns with your production requirements, ensuring that the production line can meet your output needs.

 

Power and Energy Efficiency: Evaluating the crusher's power consumption is essential, as it directly impacts operating costs and environmental sustainability. Opting for a crusher with higher energy efficiency can significantly reduce operating expenses and minimize the environmental footprint.

 

Maintenance and Durability: The maintenance requirements and the overall durability of the crusher's components are vital for prolonged operation. Crushers that are easy to maintain and feature robust components tend to result in lower operational costs by reducing downtime and minimizing repair expenditures.

 

Space and Layout: It is crucial to ensure that the chosen crusher fits seamlessly within your existing workspace and layout. Different types of crushers come in various sizes and operate differently, so careful consideration of placement is necessary to prevent overcrowding or operational inconveniences.

 

Technical Requirements:Take into account the need for modern technology and automation. Some crushers are equipped with advanced control systems and automation features that can enhance production efficiency, deliver precise process control, and provide valuable data analysis.

 

Environmental Regulations: Confirm that the selected crusher complies with both local and international environmental regulations and standards. This includes adhering to requirements related to waste management, noise control, dust suppression, and other environmental considerations.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed choice when selecting a crusher that aligns with your specific needs for efficient crushing and production.

 

Choosing the right jaw plates by considering these factors will not only enhance the crusher's performance but also contribute to cost-effective and efficient operations.

 

8. 11 Key Points: Cause Analysis of Jaw Plate Wear

Materials with Abrasive Characteristics: Highly abrasive substances, such as granite, basalt, and quartz, can induce substantial wear on jaw plates due to the considerable friction generated during the crushing process.

 

Inadequate Material Feed:Irregular or insufficient material feeding can lead to uneven wear on the jaw plates, affecting their durability. When crushing hard or dense materials, they can exert high-impact loads on the jaw plates, potentially resulting in cracks, chipping, or breakage.

 

Alignment Problems: Incorrect alignment of the jaw plates can result in uneven wear and premature failure.

 

Operating Conditions:Operating the crusher at speeds exceeding recommendations or with a full crushing chamber can lead to excessive wear on the jaw plates.

 

Choice of Jaw Plate Material:The selection of the jaw plate material is critical, as different materials possess varying wear resistance properties, and an inappropriate choice can accelerate wear.

 

Operational details during the process can also impact jaw plate lifespan:

 

Extended Material Sliding:In double-toggle jaw crushers, the vertical swing is more significant than the horizontal one, causing materials to slide for longer durations, leading to more pronounced wear, especially near the discharge port. Moreover, the chiseling action is more abrasive than extrusion, resulting in faster wear on the lower section of the jaw plate. To address this, it is common practice to invert the lower jaw plate to ensure even wear distribution.

 

Excessive Fines in the Material:Jaw plate wear is influenced by the material type and various factors, including material size. The influx of excessive fines into the jaw crusher cavity accelerates wear, as these fines occupy the spaces necessary for efficient crushing. Typically, jaw crushers work by compressing material between stationary and moving jaw plates, leveraging mechanical advantage to break down rock. When this process is compromised due to excessive fines, the crusher must rely more on energy and friction, increasing wear on the jaw plates and subjecting them to loads up to five times the standard crushing force.

 

 Oversized Material Introduction: The introduction of oversized material significantly impacts the jaw plate's service life. Jaw crushers are designed with a specific reduction ratio, typically 6 to 1, and surpassing this ratio results in crushing forces exceeding the crusher's design limits. This can negatively affect overall production and machine performance, and attempting to crush oversized material can accelerate wear.

 

 Use of Water-Based Dust Suppression: Employing dust suppression techniques can have an impact, as water can be abrasive and hasten jaw plate wear. For more effective dust control, it is advisable to utilize a fine spray dust suppression system, as it optimally balances water and dust control.

 

Excessive wear of jaw plates can lead to uneven particle sizes and reduced efficiency. When jaw plates experience severe wear, replacement becomes necessary to restore optimal crusher performance. Selecting the appropriate jaw plate type should consider the specific materials and operating conditions to ensure extended service life and efficient operation.

 

Moreover, additional factors that can influence jaw plate wear include:

 

Temperature and Environment:Extreme temperatures and harsh operating environments, such as high humidity or corrosive conditions, can accelerate wear on the jaw plates.

 

Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance and lubrication of the crusher components, including the jaw plates, are crucial for prolonging their lifespan and ensuring efficient operation.

 

Understanding these factors and taking appropriate measures to mitigate them is essential for maximizing the longevity and performance of jaw crusher jaw plates.

 

 

9. How to get the most wear life out of your jaw crusher plates?

Extending the wear life of your jaw crusher plates is essential to minimize downtime and optimize your crusher's performance. Here are some strategies to maximize the wear life of your jaw crusher plates:

 

Select the Right Jaw Plate Material: As what has said before, choosing the appropriate material for your jaw plates is crucial. Consider the type of material you will be crushing and its abrasiveness. For highly abrasive materials, opt for high chrome iron or manganese steel plates. For less abrasive materials, carbon steel may be a cost-effective choice.

 

Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Implement a strict maintenance schedule for your crusher. Regularly inspect the jaw plates for signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Replace worn or damaged plates promptly to prevent further deterioration.

 

Proper Feeding: Ensure a consistent and well-distributed material feed into the crusher. Irregular or oversized feed can lead to uneven wear on the jaw plates. Controlling the feed size and avoiding overloading the crusher is crucial.

 

Operate Within Recommended Parameters: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for operating your crusher. Operating the crusher within the recommended parameters, including speed and feed settings, helps prevent excessive wear.

 

Use Dust Suppression: Implement an effective dust suppression system to minimize abrasive dust that can accelerate wear. Reducing dust can extend the wear life of your jaw plates.

 

Optimal Crushing Chamber Settings: Adjust the crusher's settings to maintain an ideal crushing chamber. Properly align the jaw plates to ensure even wear distribution.

 

Turn or Rotate Jaw Plates:Some jaw plates can be turned or rotated to distribute wear evenly. Based on the information we've gathered, adjusting the jaw plates according to the following guidelines can extend the wear life of the jaw plates. Consult the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific jaw plates. To prolong the lifespan of your jaw plates, consider implementing a rotation strategy. When wear becomes evident, a double turn is recommended.

 

 · First Turn: Rotate jaw plates when wear reaches around 50% on their lower regions.

 · Second Turn: Initiate the second turn when wear approaches 90% in the same areas.

 · Additional Turns: Continue this process as needed to maximize the utility of your jaw plates.

 

By adopting this approach, you can evenly distribute wear, extending the life of your jaw plates.

 

Utilize Advanced Technology: Consider crushers with advanced features such as automatic settings and control systems. These systems can optimize the crusher's performance and extend the wear life of components.

 

Regular Lubrication: Ensure proper lubrication of the crusher's moving parts to reduce friction and wear.

 

Quality Control in Plate Manufacturing: If you're replacing jaw plates, ensure they are of high-quality and properly manufactured. Inferior plates can wear out quickly, leading to frequent replacements.

 

Consult Manufacturer Recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for maintaining and extending the wear life of your crusher components.

 

By following these strategies and practicing proactive maintenance, you can significantly increase the wear life of your jaw crusher plates, reduce downtime, and maximize the efficiency of your crushing operation. Regular inspections and a well-documented maintenance program are essential for achieving these goals.

 

 

10. The Ultimate Supplier: Where to Find Reliable Jaw Plates

 

 

 

In your quest for jaw plates imbued with superlative strength and resilience, look no further than Stellar Heavy. As a global leader in crusher parts and wear-resistant materials, Stellar

 

Heavy offers a comprehensive range of jaw plates tailored to diverse crushing needs. Whether you require components for primary crushers, cone crushers, impactors, or more, their seasoned team, backed by years of engineering experience, stands ready to assist. With a commitment to quality and customized solutions, they ensure your crushing operations have the steadfast support they deserve.

 

Unleash the power of jaw plates and elevate your crushing operations to new heights with the expert for crusher wear parts. Visit them today to explore a world of crushing solutions tailored to your needs!Learn more about Stellar Heavy's cutting-edge crusher components and witness the evolution of crushing technology. Your superheroes await!

 

In conclusion, understanding the critical role of jaw plates in the performance of jaw crushers is essential for efficient crushing and production. Choosing the right jaw plate material, considering factors like the nature of the material being crushed and the crusher's intended application, is a key decision. Proper maintenance, regular inspections, and adherence to manufacturer recommendations are crucial for maximizing the wear life of jaw plates. Implementing advanced technology, like automatic settings and control systems, can further optimize crusher performance. By following these strategies and proactive maintenance, you can prolong the wear life of your jaw crusher plates, minimize downtime, and achieve efficient and cost-effective crushing operations.

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