technology
Engineered screen media is made with thicker material for increased durability , but this results in less open area . This is ideal for screening many small aggregates materials or for decks with mixed media . Hybrid screens are an option that combines woven wire with polyurethane to achieve open area closer to wire cloth , but with four to six times longer wear life , while weighing less than woven wire . Other polyurethane screens achieve additional durability with thicker wire to hold up to deep bed depths , large top sizes , and wide bar rail spacing . There are misconceptions that polyurethane is strictly for dry applications or only for wet applications ; in fact , it works well in both . Look for rubber screen media when screening material with a top size larger than 30cm , or when an application requires an opening bigger than 10cm . Manufacturers can create rubber screens thicker than polyurethane for improved durability . The screens also dramatically reduce noise , handle high-impact applications , and resist abrasion .
Consider perforated steel plates for heavy-duty operations that require a large amount of open area . Some manufacturers customise each plate ’ s thickness to a customer ’ s application and can create almost any size opening . The screens should be manufactured with tapered openings to resist pegging . Many perforated plates come in different abrasionresistance levels , so be sure to choose a plate appropriate for the application .
Maintaining longevity
After determining the best combination of materials , open area , and opening size and shape , think about how the screen media will be installed . If a vibrating screen has a cambered deck , switching to a modular system can cost between R65 000 and R200 000 . Look for a manufacturer that offers tensionable screen sections that hook for a cambered deck to eliminate the need for a costly deck conversion . This allows an operator to test the media on a vibrating screen with no additional costs or commitment , as well as the option to blend engineered media with woven wire cloth or self-cleaning screens . Engineered screen media products also come in modular panels for flat decks .
Also , be aware that engineered screen media is often heavier than woven wire cloth , so the weight of a vibrating screen may change .
Calling a screen mediza expert is a fast way to assess an operation and find the most effective screen media choices for an operation ’ s specific needs . Look for a company that offers certified technicians with years of experience in vibrating screen media selection and maintenance . Some manufacturers not only offer consultations to help an operation find the best combination of screen media , but also provide on-site training to make sure the entire team knows how to properly install it to maximise wear life .
Ask the manufacturer to do a vibration analysis before and after installing the engineered screen media to ensure everything runs correctly . It ’ s a good idea for producers to complete a weekly inspection of screen media . Inspect square holes carefully . Wear becomes apparent if the openings in engineered media begin to round . Make sure tensioning remains correct by checking screen tension weekly .
Make sure to look for a manufacturer that provides ongoing support , and find a company that follows up to make sure the screen media works well once in use . Some companies employ service technicians who can be on site within 24 hours to find , diagnose , and fix any problems that might arise .
Make the best choice
If an operations manager finds that traditional screen media isn ’ t working and unscheduled changeouts are eating into profits , it might be time to consider a polyurethane , rubber or perforated plate product . Engineered screen media has the advantage of being versatile while bringing improved durability and longevity to a wide range of applications .
Perhaps most importantly , look for a company that takes pride in its work , provides great service , and has integrity . That , too , will save time and money . Following these tips will improve an operation ’ s screen media life , profits and satisfaction for years to come . n
About the author
Steve Fair is the Tyler engineered media manager at Haver & Boecker . He has over 21 years of industry experience , and works with customers to identify screening challenges , improve their screening applications , and increase screening efficiency .
Multotec Progress Eco Haver & Boecker
Haver & Boecker
Polymer screen media , such as polyurethane and rubber , offer longer wear life than traditional screen media . Multotec ’ s polyurethane screen media , for example , are manufactured with an internal steel frame for increased strength and longevity in heavy-duty applications .
Consider perforated steel plates for heavy-duty operations that require a large amount of open area , and make sure to choose the appropriate abrasion-resistance level for the application .
Haver & Boecker ’ s Ty-Max is an opencast product manufactured by pouring polyurethane over a wire grid . This results in a durable product with high wearability .
Hybrid engineered screen media combine the qualities of woven wire cloth with polyurethane . Haver & Boecker ’ s Ty-Wire , for example , has polyurethane ’ s durable and abrasive-resistant qualities , but closer open area and less weight than woven wire .
32 _ QUARRY SA | March 2017