Richards is quick to point out that since the first Metso IS screens were installed in 2003, they haven’t needed to replace any bearings. He says it’s a testament to the design and heavy-duty features of the IS screens, but more importantly, the effectiveness of the Lafarge Friendship Quarry’s comprehensive maintenance program.

The heavy-duty design enables the IS screens to hold up and perform even with the most demanding production schedules, Richards notes. Unlike most vibrating screens, the IS screen design is aided by computer engineering programs. This ensures that the IS screen has a good balance of structural strength, bearing life, and performance. The IS screen frame also is huck bolted. Traditional nuts and bolts can vibrate loose during operation. Huck bolts provide firm connections even under high G-force. Additionally, the screens have very thick side plates and use bolted reinforcement plates, which add strength in the most critical areas. The IS design also includes reinforcement cross members which provide additional strength.

“We designed the plant to achieve a certain amount of flexibility in our operation, and both Nor-X and Metso were instrumental in deciding what we should do and what products would work best within the application,” Richards points out. “The IS screens and the HP400 cone crusher have delivered.”

Article and photos provided by Metso Minerals.