VIBRATING FEEDER

What is vibrating feeder or pan feeder?

Vibrating feeders or pan feeders are used to feed crusher equipment in primary, secondary or tertiary applications.

Vibrating feeders are produced in sizes up to 1.5 meters x 3 meters, depending on market demand, although much larger vibrating feeders are also produced and used. Pan feeders are horizontal or inclined in the flow direction to facilitate the easy flow of material. The most important features of such feeders are the replaceable wear-resistant wear plates fixed to the bottom, side and rear walls that are in regular contact with the rock, ensuring equipment durability and a long service life.

In which processes/applications are vibrating feeders used?

Vibrating feeders are manufactured in different lengths and widths for primary, secondary or tertiary applications, and are used for dosing without screening material for separation according to size. Vibrating feeders, known also as pan feeders, can be mounted on a fixed chassis or operated in suspended form, and are appropriate for use

below bunkers, for the connecting of shafts in tunnels under open stocks, or before the crusher for regular and continuous feeding. Since vibrating feeders are connected to the bunker or bulk material, an uninterrupted feed is provided to the next item of machinery in the line. This type of feed is most suitable when there is a need for continuous weighing to identify fluctuations, especially in conveyor systems with belt scales. Since the flow of material is immediately halted when vibrating feeders are stopped, they allow highly effective dosing.

Useful tips for the maintenance and operation of vibrating feeders.

As with all vibrating equipment and other crushing and screening machinery, the daily, weekly and monthly checks and maintenance procedures described in detail in the user books should be followed. For the maintenance/operation of vibrating feeders:

·        The lubrication or grease of vibration motors or other drive mechanisms should be checked, if present;

·        Wear and tear should be checked, and worn parts should be replaced to ensure a long working life. Worn plates must be replaced before the wear and tear to the surfaces of the feeder that come into contact with the fed material reaches the main body. In particular, the feeder base should be checked for corrosion, and welded repairs should be avoided as they may hinder the flow of material.

·        There should be no loose fixings in the body of vibrating feeders. The maintenance and lubrication of vibration system connections and electric motors should be carried out regularly, without delay.

·        Springs and rubber damping wedges should be checked periodically, and replaced if necessary.

·        In linear vibration systems, the movement of material over the feeder resembles the flow of water. The chassis and the vibration system contribute to feeder efficiency. The vibration frequency can be adjusted from the control panel, resulting in a change in capacity. Choosing the right frequency is important for the efficient functioning of the equipment.