Selecting the right size and type of screen improves the overall success of an aggregates operation.

by Leon Luadzers

The proper sizing and selection of a vibrating scalping screen is critical to the success of most aggregate and mining processing plants. In general, vibrating scalpers improve the overall performance of the entire processing plant, including crushers and other vibrating screens.

Since conducting research on this subject 21 years ago, my vibrating scalper sizing formula has been incorporated into popular aggregate-flow computer programs, making it easier to size vibrating scalper screens. However, with new vibrating screen technology and screen media it’s important for operators to take advantage of new options and choices.

The original scalper screen sizing formula was required because formulas that existed at that time only worked for small openings and finishing screen applications. The large openings used by vibrating scalpers and the uniqueness of the application required something new. Throughout the years, the formula has proven to work well and has been incorporated into modern sizing programs.

For the purpose of this article, the vibrating scalper is described as an extra heavy-duty vibrating screen designed to accept larger feed size (typically larger than 8 inches). The scalper typically screens or scalps at openings from 4 to 8 inches and larger. The scalper is normally designed with extra heavy-duty design features and is equipped with heavy-duty media such as grizzly bars, perforated plate, rubber panels, etc.

The function of the scalping screen is usually described as the separation of oversize material from a feed of finer feed; however, this is not the situation in every application.

Typical scalper applications