Service Questions with Dakota: Common Feeder Issues & Their Resolutions

Rock crusher feeders are crucial components in the mining and aggregate industries, playing an essential role in controlling the flow of material into crushers for efficient processing. However, like any mechanical system, they are susceptible to issues that can disrupt operations, cause delays, and even damage other equipment. Let’s join Eagle Crusher Service Technician Dakota and explore these common issues, their causes, and effective solutions to keep your feeder operating smoothly and ensure maximum productivity.

Some Common Feeder Issues

Common Issue #1 – 480 VAC leads

Some common feeder issues are shorting the 480 VAC leads. This could be either on the SOOW cord from the main electric panel or in the motor junction box.

Potential Causes

This can occur if a motor was changed, and no duct seal was put back into the junction box to keep the leads from rubbing together.

Another way this could occur is if the strain relief cord grip is missing and the cord is too tight. This could cause it to pull it out of the box, exposing the wiring to elements. It could also cut into the insulation of the wire, eventually making its way into the bare wire.

Possible Solutions

As always, when working on maintenance or repairs on rock crushing equipment, you must lock out and tag out before proceeding.

If a motor change is required, make sure you repack the motor junction box with a duct seal and verify that the strain relief cord grip is installed. Eagle Crusher’s Service Team is always available to assist over the phone or in person.

Common Issue #2 – VFD Faults due to Mechanical Issues

Some other common issues with the feeder are variable frequency drive (VFD) faults such as overcurrent faults.

Potential Causes

This could be from incorrect programming of the VFD or a mechanical issue overloading the motor. Overloading the feeder will cause the VFD to fault as well.

If the hopper is mounted in the wrong position the feeder itself will rub the hopper causing drag on the motor and causing the motor to work harder.

Possible Solutions

Locking out and tagging out is the first step to any rock crusher solution.

Fixing the VFD programming itself can be an easy fix or a multiple step process. Due to the nature of the programming, it is recommended that you call the rock crusher’s manufacturer for a step-by-step guide on resolving this issue. Eagle Crusher’s Service Team is always available by phone to help resolve issues like this.

Solving the mechanical issues can be as easy as too much or too little oil in the feeder drive. Remember that the recommended interval for a Diester feeder is every 500 hours. If you have a Simplicity feeder, the recommended interval is every 250-300 hours. Another common mechanical issue is oil leaking from the feeder due to either over filling the oil past the ½ way mark on the sight glass or the plant being unlevel.

Working Now to Save Time & Money in the Future

Addressing common issues with rock crusher feeders proactively can make a significant difference in the efficiency, lifespan, and safety of your crushing operations. By regularly inspecting feeder components, adjusting feed rates, and staying on top of maintenance schedules, you can reduce the risk of unplanned downtime and costly repairs.

You can continue your journey by catching up on previous “Service Questions” blogs or by coming back next month when Eagle Crusher Service Technician Mark covers preventative maintenance for screens.