Crushing / Comminution / Size Reduction

The first step in comminution/size reduction begins at the mining stage with the use of drilling/blasting and excavation to generate materials that are easily transportable. Haul trucks then transport this material for further size reduction. The second step crushing or comminution (size reduction) of ore materials is necessary to unlock or liberate minerals from waste materials. Crushers utilize compression, impact, abrasion and attrition to achieve certain particle size reduction/shape necessary for further minerals processing techniques. Crushers are typically categorized as primary, secondary or tertiary crushers, with particle size getting progressively smaller.

Run of Mine materials are transported to primary crushers which consist of either gyratory or jaw crushers. Secondary and Tertiary crushing is then performed depending on the material and the level of size reduction necessary. Crushers such as cone crushers, vertical shaft impact crushers, horizontal shaft impact crushers, hammer mill crushers and roller crushers are common.

- Metso Minerals, P.R. Engineering Ltd, Sandvik Mining and Construction images.