ADVANCEMENTS IN COMMINUTION EQUIPMENT FOR MINING: INNOVATIONS IN CRUSHING AND GRINDING TECHNOLOGIES

Comminution, which includes crushing and grinding, is one of the most energy-intensive processes in the mining industry, accounting for up to 50% of total energy consumption in mineral processing plants. Recent technological advancements have introduced more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly comminution equipment. This paper reviews the latest innovations in crushing and grinding technologies, including high-pressure grinding rolls (HPGR), vertical roller mills (VRM), and advanced cone crushers with real-time optimization systems. The study evaluates the energy efficiency, operational performance, and economic feasibility of these devices compared to traditional equipment such as ball mills and jaw crushers. The findings suggest that adopting modern comminution technologies can significantly reduce energy consumption, improve particle size distribution, and lower operational costs. These advancements contribute to more sustainable mining operations by minimizing environmental impact and optimizing resource utilization.