Metal crusher

Types of Metal Crushers

A metal crusher is an machine used to crush and recycle various types of metals. Different kinds of metal crushers exist, each designed for specific types of metals. Here are four popular metal crushers:

• Heavy-duty Metal Crushers: They are large industrial crushers designed to handle heavy scraps. They are equipped with powerful crushing units and have a large throughput capacity. Also, they are designed to crush extra-large metal scraps such as used cars, steel furniture, metal cabinets, and large metal drums. Due to their size and power, heavy-duty metal crushers reduce bulky metal wastes into easily manageable pieces. Also, these pieces are then processed by recycling facilities.
• Chewing Gums Can Crushers: They are small-sized crushers designed for home use. A chewing gum can crusher helps individuals crush used chewing gum cans to reduce waste produced in the process. It may feature a simple manual mechanism or an automatic mechanism that is activated once a chewing gum can is placed inside.
• Aluminum Can Crushers: They are designed to crush aluminum cans used for beverages. Beverages produced in aluminum cans include soda, beer, and energy drinks. This type of metal crusher is the most popular and most produced due to the massive global consumption of beverages in aluminum cans. It works by flattening and piercing the aluminum can using mechanical leverage, pneumatic force, or hydraulics to create more space in recycling facilities.
• Portable Metal Crushers: They are relatively small and can be moved around easily. A portable metal crusher fits nicely in a small space and can be installed with ease. Despite their small sizes, they are powerful and efficient. Furthermore, they are specially designed to crush metal scraps quickly and leave little remnants.

Specifications and Maintenance of Metal Crushers

Specifications differ based on the types of metal shredders and their applications. Nonetheless, here are some generic specifications when it comes to size, weight, and capacity.

• Size: Metal crushers take up a different space, depending on the application. Industrial metal crushers are huge, and typical dimensions are about 2-3 meters in height and length and 3-4 meters in width. Smaller, portable crushers are about 1 meter in height and length and 1-2 meters in width. The size of the machine also determines its productivity.
• Weight: Due to the enormous parts and pieces, big metal crushers are heavy, and the weight can range from 3,000 kg to 8,000 kg. Smaller models are lighter, and the weight can be as low as 1,500 kg.
• Capacity: The capacity of a metal waste crusher depends on whether it is used for commercial or residential use. While smaller crushers can crush 100 to 500 kg of metal in an hour, larger industrial crushers can have a capacity of anywhere between 3,000 to 8,000 kg per hour.

Maintenance of metal crushers is very important, and manufacturers will look for models that have easy maintenance requirements. Here's a look at some of the things that help keep the crushers running smoothly and efficiently:

• Regular Inspection: Frequent inspections of parts such as the crushing blades, bearings, hydraulic system, belts, and fans are necessary. Users look for any signs of wear and tear, damage, or leaks. Any mechanical issues should be taken care of immediately to prevent larger problems later on.
• Lubrication: Bearings and moving parts of the metal crusher need to be lubricated well. This ensures there is adequate support and smooth functioning.
• Blade Maintenance: The crusher blades get damaged due to the constant grinding of metal. Users will need to regularly check the blades for signs of damage and have them sharpened as needed. Ensure the blade recalibrations are done right, and all safety measures are in place during the process.
• Dust and debris: The performance of a metal shredder can decline rapidly if it is not cleaned regularly. Dust and debris accumulate quickly. Cleaning the machine will prevent the buildup of scrap metal, lubricant, and dust in all those hard-to-reach areas.
• Lubrication of Hydraulic System: Hydraulic metal crushers are heavy-duty shredders and largely rely on the hydraulic system to function well. Lubricating the system can help with its longevity and keep the functionality smooth and efficient.
• Air Filters: Crushers, especially industrial ones, will have air filter systems to prevent dust from getting into the blower and motor. This goes a long way in preventing any health hazards. The air filter needs to be cleaned regularly to ensure dust doesn't clog up the machine.

Industry scenarios of using metal crushers

Industrial metal crushers are valuable machines used in several industries. The most common is the metal recycling industry, where crushers break down scrap metal into smaller, manageable parts for recycling.

Many manufacturers of cans and bottles are now using crushers to install them in their facilities to maximize space by reducing the materials. Amazingly, a metal crusher can reduce the size of a can up to 20 times.

Vehicle manufacturing and assembly companies make use of metal crushers to process old vehicles parts, like body panels, bumpers, hoods, wheels, etc., that cannot be recycled and to have better space in their premises. Some crushers have sorting systems that separate parts made of aluminum, steel, and iron.

Construction companies also use metal crushers to eliminate scaffolding, containers, rebar, and other metal parts on construction sites. They can do this with mobile crushers that are more convenient to use on the site and are safe practices. Mobile crushers are safe to use on construction sites because they have included safety measures that protect operators and bystanders. These safety features may include emergency stop buttons, safety guards, overload protection, and operator enclosures to prevent access to moving parts during operation.

Heavy industries use metal crushers to break down large metal parts in their factories, such as metal sheets, metal barrels, and metal containers, before disposing of them.

Fireworks manufacturing companies use metal fragment crushers to make metal powders used during firework productions. These include magnesium powder, titanium powder, and aluminum powder.

Some waste management companies install metal crushers in their facilities to sort ferrous and nonferrous metals from other waste materials in their facilities before recycling the metals.

Buyers looking for an industrial metal crusher should first identify the machine's main use before purchasing because the specifications and features can vary greatly.

How to choose metal crushers

When selecting a metal crusher for business use, there are several important factors to consider. First, establish the capacity requirements based on the expected metal volume that needs to be crushed on a daily or monthly basis. Next, evaluate the different types of crushers available and choose one suited for the specific metal material being processed. Thoroughly inspect the build quality, focusing on the strength and durability of components like the crushing blades, housing, and motor.

Opt for crushers with energy-efficient motors to minimize electricity costs and environmental impact. While considering the primary function of the metal crusher is to crush metal, the noise levels they produce should be taken into consideration. Look for machines that operate quietly, or have the option to install a silencer, to reduce noise pollution in the area and consider the maintenance requirements. Find out if the suppliers provide offers for repairs, spare parts, and scheduled maintenance services.

Source the metal crushers from reputable suppliers with a proven track record. Read reviews and ratings from other buyers to gain insight into supplier reliability. Ensure the metal crusher chosen complies with relevant safety and environmental standards to avoid legal issues later. Check if the machine is fully compliant with safety standards to avoid legal issues later. Compare costs, but prioritize the quality and performance of the crusher. Finally, before making a bulk purchase, it's advisable to request a product demo or visit a site with a similar machine in operation.

Metal Crusher FAQ

Q1: What are the safety considerations when using a metal crusher?

A1: There are several safety considerations to observe when using a metal shredder. Users should put on ear protection to reduce exposure to loud noise and allow breathing room for fresh air to avoid suffocation. Also, avoid putting hands or body parts into the machines to prevent injury. Following the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions is also necessary for proper usage and handling.

Q2: Can a metal crusher crush cans?

A2: Yes, there are metal crushers designed for use at home and small commercial facilities that crush metal cans. These types of crushers use a lever system for manual crushing. Large industrial crushers, however, are designed to crush a wider variety of metallic products, including cans.

Q3: What determines the price of a metal crusher?

A3: Several factors influence the pricing of metal crushers. This include the machine's capacity, which is the amount of metal waste it can process in a given timeframe. The type of metal crusher also reflects different prices. Additionally, the features of the crushers, such as automated systems, advanced technologies, and extra safety mechanisms, might affect pricing. Some crushers have environmental control systems that limit dust and emissions. Such features might raise the price of the machine.