As miners globally reign in costs, they are looking to get more uptime from their machinery with fewer maintenance costs.
If an operator lets their screens stand down for maintenance too frequently and for too long it makes it hard to reach maximum profitability.
However at the same time they do not want to sacrifice safety on site simply for a few extra tonnes of ore processed.
With this in mind Metso has developed a new screen that not only provides fewer downtimes, but also allows for safer maintenance while delivering more screening capacity.
The Metso ES – a new high-energy elliptical motion horizontal screen, is able to deliver up to 25 per cent more screening capacity compared to a conventional screen of the same size, according to Metso.
Mats Dahlberg, Metso's global business manager of vibrating equipment, mining and construction, explained that "because our customers are aiming for more accurate and consistent material separation with lower operational cost, we have taken the acclaimed Metso modular MV vibrator and integrated it into a unique, new screen design" that is providing more capacity.
It is able to achieve this higher throughput because it features a robust deck frame design, with no welding along the cross member sections which aids the Metso ES's continued performance.
The weld-free side plates ensure durability and a high stress tolerance while a huck-bolted design also guarantees easier assembly and maintenance conditions.
As there are no mechanical timing devices, gears, belts or oil leakage, which together with the reliable grease lubrication system simply keeps downtime and maintenance to a minimum.
Safety has also been a focus.
According to the machinery manufacturer, the space between the decks is now almost 50 per cent larger compared to similar flat screens, which means that it is now safer and more comfortable for workers to access the machine for maintenance and cleanining.
The Metso ES is also equipped with coil spring covers to minimise the risk of pinching accidents, rubber stabilisers, high-safety belt guards and one centralised, conveniently located greasing manifold.
On top of this the gearless mechanism concept reduces noise, lessening the risk of industrial hearing loss for workers.
Its feedbox, discharge spout and cardan shafts feature Trellex modular wear and impact resistance rubber linings.
The screen is preconfigured to handle both modular and tension screening media.
The Metso ES will be released in May.