Depending on the crusher type, adjustment methods are mainly categorized into the following two types:
Modern cone crushers mostly use hydraulic systems for adjustment and locking, offering ease of operation and high precision.
Adjustment Mechanism: A hydraulic motor drives the adjustment ring, which in turn rotates the fixed cone (mortar wall) in or out, changing the clearance in the crushing chamber.
Clockwise rotation of the adjustment ring lowers the fixed cone, resulting in a smaller discharge clearance and finer material.
Counterclockwise rotation of the adjustment ring raises the fixed cone, increasing the discharge clearance and coarser material.
Operation Location: Operation is typically performed on the electrical control cabinet or control panel, using buttons to control the forward and reverse rotation of the hydraulic motor. Advanced models even allow the target clearance or discharge size to be entered directly on the touchscreen, with the PLC automatically performing the adjustment.
Adjustment of a spring cone crusher is relatively complex, requiring both manual and mechanical coordination.
Adjustment Mechanism: This is primarily accomplished by adjusting the locking nut and the push cylinder (or jack).
First, use a jack or the machine’s built-in hydraulic cylinder to slightly lift the movable cone assembly to release the spring pressure.
Then, loosen the locking nut.
Next, rotate the adjusting ring (similar to the hydraulic principle, but driven manually or by a motor) to raise or lower the fixed cone.
Once adjusted to the desired position, tighten the locking nut and finally remove the jack.
Warning: Before performing any adjustments or maintenance, perform the “tagout and lockout” procedure to ensure the equipment is completely de-energized, shut down, and release all hydraulic system pressure!
Shutdown and Power Off: Completely stop the crusher, disconnect the main power supply, and engage the safety lock.
Relieve Pressure: Release any residual pressure in the hydraulic system (such as the hydraulic locking cylinder and adjustment cylinder).
Cavity Cleaning: Ensure that there is no residual material in the crushing chamber. This is a crucial step; failure to do so can severely damage the adjustment mechanism.
Tool Preparation: Gather the necessary tools, such as feeler gauges, a flashlight, and a wrench.
Using a feeler gauge or specialized measuring tool, measure the gap between the movable cone and the bottom of the fixed cone at the crusher’s feed inlet. Typically, measurements should be taken at several points evenly spaced around the circumference to ensure the gap is uniform and the movable cone is centered. Record the current values.
Remote/Automatic Adjustment (Recommended): On the control panel in the control room, use the control buttons to make fine adjustments according to the principles described above. The screen typically displays the rotation angle or relative position of the adjustment ring.
On-site Manual Adjustment (If Required): Some machines are equipped with a manually operated valve or handle for fine adjustments at the machine.
After adjustment, use a feeler gauge to measure the new discharge gap again to ensure it is at the target value and uniform around the crusher. If it is uneven, the movable cone may be tilted and needs to be readjusted or inspected for wear.
After confirming that the gap adjustment is correct, ensure that all hydraulic locking devices are in proper working order.
Clean up tools on site and close the inspection door.
Remove the safety lock, apply power, and start the machine at no load for several minutes, observing for any abnormal noise or vibration.
After normal no-load operation, begin feeding slowly and gradually increase the load to the normal load.
No Adjustments While the Machine is Running or Loading Material: Never adjust the gap while the machine is running or loading material. This can cause serious damage to the adjustment mechanism (such as threads) and even render the machine useless.
Gap Uniformity: Maintaining uniform gaps around the machine is more important than absolute accuracy. Uneven gaps can lead to uneven product particle size, uneven wear, increased vibration, and premature spindle failure.
After Installing a New Liner: After replacing a new liner, the discharge gap must be rechecked and adjusted, as the thickness of the new liner will differ from that of the worn old liner.
Wear Monitoring: The discharge gap will gradually increase as the liners (both the cone liner and the mortar wall) wear. Product particle size should be checked regularly. If the particle size continues to coarsen, consider adjusting the clearance to compensate for wear. If the clearance, even after adjusting to the maximum limit, still fails to meet the particle size requirements, it indicates that the liner needs to be replaced.
Reference Equipment Manual: Cone crushers of different models and brands have different adjustment ranges, maximum and minimum limits, and hydraulic system pressure settings. Be sure to carefully read the manufacturer’s manual before operation and strictly follow the instructions.
Safety First: Strictly adhere to safety procedures throughout the entire process to prevent accidental startup or falling components from injuring anyone.
The key to adjusting the discharge clearance of a cone crusher is to change the distance between the movable cone and the bottom of the fixed cone by raising or lowering the fixed cone. Hydraulic cone crushers achieve this through electrically controlled hydraulic pressure and are the industry standard; spring cone crushers require manual mechanical adjustment. In either method, safe shutdown, emptying the material chamber, and measurement verification are essential steps. Regular inspection and effective adjustments are key to ensuring efficient and stable crusher operation and producing quality products.
