A crusher is a heavy-duty machine used to break down large, solid materials such as stones, rocks, and mineral ores into smaller, more manageable sizes. It is a fundamental piece of equipment in industries such as mining, construction, recycling, and infrastructure. The main purpose of a crusher is to prepare raw materials for further processing or direct use.

The operation of a crusher typically starts by feeding material into a large hopper. From there, the material passes through the primary crusher unit, where large rocks are reduced in size. Subsequent secondary and tertiary crushers refine the material even further. Screening units then sort these crushed materials into desired sizes, which are transported to storage areas via conveyor belts.

Crushers are essential in aggregate production, concrete and asphalt recycling, railway ballast production, and mineral processing.

What is a Mobile Crusher, What is it Used For, How Does It Work, and Where is it Used?

A mobile crusher is a portable crushing and screening system mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis. It is designed for quick setup and easy relocation, making it ideal for short-term projects, temporary job sites, and urban environments. Thanks to its compact design and integrated systems, a mobile crusher can begin production in just a few hours.

Material is loaded into the hopper, processed by crushers, screened into size-based fractions, and moved to loading areas using conveyors. Since all components are integrated into one mobile unit, it offers flexibility and reduces the need for additional equipment.

Mobile crushers are commonly used in road expansion projects, demolition sites, infrastructure repairs, and small-scale quarrying.

What is a Fixed Crusher, What is it Used For, How Does It Work, and Where is it Used?

A fixed crusher is a stationary crushing and screening facility established for long-term, large-scale production. These systems are installed at a specific site and are designed to operate continuously over extended periods. Due to their large processing capacities, they are favored in quarries, cement plants, and mining operations.

They feature multiple crushers, large screening surfaces, long conveyor systems, and automated control via electrical grids. Their high production capacity and low cost per ton make them economical over time, although the initial investment and installation time are higher.

Differences Between Fixed and Mobile Crushers

  • Mobility: Mobile crushers can be moved between sites; fixed crushers are permanent installations.

  • Setup Time: Mobile units can start quickly; fixed units require extensive setup time.

  • Production Capacity: Fixed plants offer higher throughput than mobile units.

  • Energy Supply: Mobile units often use generators; fixed ones use direct electricity.

  • Investment: Mobile units are cheaper to install; fixed systems require more capital.

  • Application: Mobile crushers are suited for temporary, low-volume applications; fixed systems are optimal for large, long-term operations.