Mathematical model of rock particle motion in rotor of centrifugal crusher

Crushing and milling as the starter operations of ore processing are connected with relatively high energy expenditure, which imposes large limitations on the choice of a fracture method. Owing to entry of low-grade ore in processing operations, the volume of rock mass to be treated and, consequently, the total energy input grow appreciably. Rock fracture via free impact has an essential advantage over smashing—the greatly lesser energy intensity defined by the energy input in formation of contact zones. Free impact fracture is implemented in centrifugal crushers and disintegrators. The presentday mining industry employs centrifugal crushers and disintegrators of various design. At the same time, they use the same work process which begins with speeding-up of rock particles in the rotor. In this case, the energy cost is composed of a few constituent elements: transfer of kinetic energy to rock particles, energy spent for friction due to the force of gravity and Coriolis force. This energy expenditure influences the reduction ratio of rock particles and governs the whole machine and process efficiency. The process of speeding-up of rock particles in the rotor of a centrifugal crusher is analyzed, the energy expenditure patterns are determined, and the process efficiency is estimated. The experimental research with a centrifugal crusher with a rotor diameter of 500 mm shows that the most worn part is the exterior of spin columns. This proves the high influence exerted on the process by the Coriolis force which presses rock particles to the column. It is necessary to continue researching the work process in order to enhance its efficiency. It is possible to decrease the wear rate in the periphery of the columns by means of reinforcement of the rotor with regard to its wear patterns.