How to adjust the discharge opening of cone crusher?

Adjusting the discharge opening of a cone crusher is a crucial step in controlling the size of the output material. The method for adjustment varies depending on the type of cone crusher and its specific design. Here's a general overview of common adjustment methods.

Cone Crusher Discharge Opening Adjustment Methods

Types of Discharge Adjustment Devices:

Fixed Pulley Adjustment Device:

Uses a rope and pulley system with an external lifting device to rotate the adjusting sleeve.

Rotating the adjusting sleeve changes the distance between the mantle (moving crushing element) and the concave (fixed crushing element).

This method can also be used to unscrew the upper part of the crusher for replacing liners.

For spring cone crushers, compressing the spring increases the discharge opening, while stretching it decreases the opening. The adjusting sleeve controls the spring's compression or extension.

Hydraulic Pusher Adjustment Device:

Similar principle to the fixed pulley method, where rotation of the adjusting sleeve adjusts the discharge opening.

Instead of ropes and pulleys, hydraulic pushers generate thrust to rotate the adjusting sleeve.

Hydraulic Motor Adjustment Device:

A hydraulic motor directly drives the rotation of the adjusting ring (in multi-cylinder hydraulic cone crushers).

This rotates the fixed cone (concave) up or down within the support sleeve, thus changing the discharge opening.

This method is known for providing easier locking of the discharge opening.

Hydraulic Cylinder Adjustment (for single-cylinder hydraulic cone crushers):

Oil is injected or discharged to the spindle cylinder via an oil pump.

This causes the spindle (and thus the mantle) to move up or down, adjusting the discharge opening.

However, this method might make locking the discharge opening more challenging when crushing very hard materials.

General Steps for Adjustment (may vary by manufacturer and model):

Safety First: Ensure the crusher is completely stopped and locked out before attempting any adjustments. Follow all safety procedures outlined in the manufacturer's manual.

Locate the Adjustment Mechanism: Identify the specific adjustment device on your cone crusher (fixed pulley, hydraulic pusher, hydraulic motor, or hydraulic cylinder).

Loosen Locking Mechanisms: If there are bolts or other mechanisms locking the adjusting sleeve or ring in place, loosen them.

Make the Adjustment:

For fixed pulley or hydraulic pusher: Use the lifting device or hydraulic pushers to rotate the adjusting sleeve. Observe the movement of the upper assembly (bowl or adjusting ring) relative to the lower assembly. Rotating in one direction will increase the gap (larger discharge opening), and rotating in the opposite direction will decrease it (smaller discharge opening).

For hydraulic motor: Operate the hydraulic motor to rotate the adjusting ring. This will cause the fixed cone to move up or down, changing the discharge opening.

For hydraulic cylinder: Use the hydraulic pump to inject or discharge oil from the spindle cylinder, causing the main shaft and mantle to move vertically and adjust the gap.

Measure the Discharge Opening: Use appropriate tools to measure the new closed side setting (CSS) – the narrowest gap between the mantle and concave. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for the desired CSS based on the required product size.

Tighten Locking Mechanisms: Once the desired discharge opening is achieved, securely tighten all locking bolts or mechanisms.

Test Run (Carefully): After adjustment, perform a brief, unloaded test run to ensure the crusher operates smoothly and the adjustment is stable.

Monitor Performance: Once the crusher is back in operation with material, monitor the product size to ensure it meets the desired specifications. Fine-tune the discharge opening if necessary.

Important Considerations:

Manufacturer's Manual: Always consult the specific operation and maintenance manual for your cone crusher model for detailed instructions and safety guidelines on adjusting the discharge opening.

Closed Side Setting (CSS) and Open Side Setting (OSS): Understand the difference between CSS (narrowest gap) and OSS (widest gap). The CSS is the primary measurement for determining product size.

Material Characteristics: The optimal discharge opening depends on the type and size of the feed material and the desired product size.

Wear: As the mantle and concave liners wear, the discharge opening will gradually increase. Regular monitoring and adjustment are necessary to maintain the desired product size.

Even Feed: Ensure a consistent and even feed rate to the crusher for optimal performance and consistent product size.

By understanding the adjustment mechanism of your cone crusher and following the correct procedures, you can effectively control the discharge opening and achieve the desired output material size.