The choice of the right crusher for the secondary crushing process is a decision of considerable significance. Such a decision impacts the efficiency of the operation and the quality of the product. The choice between the impact crusher and the cone crusher is often a function of the properties of the materials to be processed and the desired properties of the product. A clear understanding of the key strengths of the crushers is the first step toward optimizing the operation and the cost.
The impact crusher is the best option when the materials are relatively softer and less abrasive. Such materials include limestone, recycled concrete, and asphalt. The main advantage of the impact crusher is the ability to produce a well-shaped product that is cubic in shape. Such a product is highly desirable for the production of concrete and asphalt. Furthermore, the impact crushers are capable of delivering a high reduction ratio and the ability to easily customize the product specifications without necessarily shutting down the operation.
On the flip side, when you are dealing with tougher and more abrasive rocks such as granite, basalt, and quartzite, the cone crusher is the obvious choice. It is designed for high throughput rates and steady output. It is intended to withstand the heavy wear and tear that comes with crushing tough rocks. Although the product may not have the perfect cubic shape that the impact crusher provides, the cone crusher leads the way when it comes to durability and lower operating costs. It is the obvious choice when dealing with tough rocks in stationary operations where production runs are long and steady.
The bottom line is a simple rule of thumb that is based on the science of materials. When dealing with soft rocks and the primary objective is the product’s versatility and perfect cubic shape, the impact crusher is the obvious choice. However, when dealing with tough rocks and the primary objective is high tonnage rates with the lowest operating costs, the cone crusher is the obvious choice.
