Forces in a Cone Crusher

Abstract

The literature on the design of cone crushers and analysis of the corresponding crushing processes is mainly based on empirical observations. As a result, it is generally accepted that the crushing action is due solely to compressive forces. Crushers are designed on that basis. Accordingly, many cone crushers today are characterized by common operating principles. Most theoretical work on cone crushers focuses on performance characteristics such as the productivity, degree of crushing, or increase in content of the target fraction or on operational characteristics of individual crusher components such as the life of the armored lining or the increase in life of bearings and drives. To improve those characteristics, a crushing-chamber design with complex armored lining has been developed, while the working components (cones) combine elements of those used in other crushers (of roller or jaw type). However, kinematic efficiency of the working component is only considered in terms of the creation of compressive forces in the material being crushed and minimization of slip. Most of the energy supplied to any crusher is consumed in creating the destructive load. The basic contention of the present work is that, in certain circumstances, it is possible to increase the energy efficiency of the crushing process. One option is to create a complex stress state in the material to be crushed. Some crusher designs are considered, and their applicability is discussed. The creation of a complex stress state in the crusher permitting decrease in its energy consumption is described. Recommendations are made regarding the creation of energy-efficient conditions in the crusher.