In the demanding world of mining, heavy-duty springs offer a strategic solution to mining vibration control. This post explores the types of springs used to reduce vibrations, the challenges faced and the benefits of heavy springs in mining equipment.
At Lesjöfors, we manufacture heavy-duty springs for components in the quarry and mining industries, including screeners, crushers, conveyor systems, drills and breakers, excavators, trucks, loaders and more. So, let’s begin by first understanding the challenges of mining vibration control and then delve into spring solutions.
Mining presents various challenges which impact the wear and tear of machinery, as well as the efficiency of the extraction process. These challenges include:
Vibration monitoring supports the lifespan and efficiency of mining machinery. Heavy springs support this process by absorbing and dissipating the energy generated by mechanical vibrations. This reduces stress on components and improves safety and efficiency in mining environments.
Basic principles of mining vibration control include natural frequency, damping and isolation. When a spring is used in a system, it absorbs vibrational energy and reduces the transmission of shock and vibration from the source to the surrounding structures. To be effective, a spring in a vibration control system must have a natural frequency significantly different from the frequency of the vibration source.
The other basic principles include damping, which dissipates energy within the system, and isolation, which creates a barrier or buffer between the vibrating components and the parts of the structure that do not need to vibrate.
Compression springs withstand heavy loads, are durable, absorb shock, and control vibration. They are used in crushers, screening and sorting equipment, vibratory feeders, and conveyors, as well as in the suspension systems of mining vehicles.
Tension (extension springs) operate under tension and absorb and store energy by extending. They control motion and maintain force between two attached components. They are used in drilling equipment, the lids of large storage containers and hoppers, conveyor systems, and to maintain tension on belts.
Torsion springs operate on the principle of twisting force or torque. They support a component returning to its original position after being rotated and are used in control levers, pedals, locking mechanisms, valves, and switches in mining machinery.
Leaf springs distribute load and absorb shocks. They are made from layers of metal leafs stacked on each other and are commonly used in suspension systems of heavy vehicles, such as trucks, loaders, and dumpers.
Heavy springs provide many benefits in the mining industry, from increasing equipment lifespan to improving efficiency and reducing maintenance costs.
Heavy springs are engineered to perform in harsh conditions and can withstand dust, moisture and temperature fluctuations. They perform reliably under continuous stress and prevent early wear and tear of mining equipment.
The damping properties of springs protect components from operational stress. Heavy springs extend the lifespan of mining equipment by absorbing shocks and reducing vibrations.
Heavy springs prevent wear and tear and lessen the strain on other components. This leads to fewer breakdowns and lower maintenance costs.
Heavy springs support machinery to operate smoothly and maintain structural integrity under high loads. This prevents malfunctions and accidents in the mining industry.
Heavy springs enable accurate and efficient performance in precision equipment such as drilling, enabling components to perform at optimal levels.
Best practice begins with selecting the appropriate type and size of spring based on the requirements and site conditions. Springs must be compatible with equipment in load capacity and vibration frequency.
Regular inspections and maintenance are also key to maintaining optimal performance. This includes checking for signs of wear, corrosion and fatigue and ensuring springs have proper lubrication and protection from extreme environmental factors.
As the industry moves towards more automated and remote-controlled machinery, the demand for highly durable and precise springs is expected to increase. Advancements in materials science are leading to new spring compositions that offer greater strength, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance, which are useful for the harsh conditions of mining environments. Sensors are also being embedded in springs to monitor their performance and predict failures before they occur. Innovations are also being made in developing more sustainable materials that can be easily recycled.
Heavy-duty springs offer a sturdy solution to reducing the impact of vibrations in the mining industry. The basic principles of mining vibration control include natural frequency, damping, and isolation. There are many benefits to using heavy springs, and there are many types of springs, including compression, tension, torsion, leaf, and rubber springs.
At Lesjöfors, we design, engineer, and manufacture custom springs for quarry and mining machinery for suppliers with worldwide reputations. We deliver top-level services through enhanced spring design and use materials that offer optimal performance, durability and extended life cycles whilst being cost-effective. Contact our expert team to find out more.
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At Lesjöfors, we work with a large range of materials and hold the largest global stocks of chrome silicon and chrome vanadium anywhere in the world. We can also optimise your spring performance with quality materials such as steel, copper and titanium alloys and super alloys, such as Inconel, Hastelloy and Nimonic.
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