Crusher Retainer Tool With Balanced Actuation to Protect Threads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting and dismounting the inner crushing shell on a gyratory crusher require excessive force, often leading to thread damage and safety risks for personnel.
Innovation Solution
A tool with a two-point tightening mechanism using actuators to apply a predefined force, which is designed to work in equilibrium to securely mount and dismount the retainer assembly without tilting the head nut.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sledge hammer or hydraulic hammer is used for tightening and loosening the retainer assembly, then the mounting and dismounting operation can be performed, but the threads of the retaining mechanism get damaged due to tilting or excessive forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional hammer-based mechanical system with a controlled actuating mechanism that applies force through a lever arm and spigot system. This substitution eliminates the uncontrolled impact forces and tilting problems associated with hammers, providing precise force application that protects thread integrity while achieving reliable mounting and dismounting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements including a lever arm, spigot, and actuator mechanism that mediate between the applied force and the retainer assembly. These intermediaries distribute and control the forces applied during mounting and dismounting, preventing direct transmission of excessive or misaligned forces to the threads, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational capability and thread protection.
2Productivity
If a sledge hammer or hydraulic hammer is used for mounting and dismounting, then the operation can be completed, but personal often gets injured due to the dangerous work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces dangerous hammer-based manual operations with a controlled actuating system that eliminates the need for personnel to handle heavy hammers or work in hazardous positions. The actuator-driven lever mechanism performs the mounting and dismounting operations safely, removing the source of personal injury risk while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the retainer assembly to be mounted and dismounted through a controlled mechanical system that operates without requiring personnel to directly engage with dangerous moving parts or apply excessive manual force. The system performs the hazardous function itself through the actuating mechanism, protecting personnel from injury while achieving the required productivity.
3Ease of operation
If excessive forces are applied during mounting and dismounting, then the operation can be completed, but the head nut tilts and threads get damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a lever arm and spigot as intermediary elements that mediate between the actuating force and the head nut. These intermediaries ensure that forces are applied in a controlled, aligned manner that prevents tilting of the head nut while still enabling effective mounting and dismounting operations. The geometry of the lever arm and spigot arrangement maintains proper alignment throughout the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a balanced lever arm system that acts as a mechanical counterweight mechanism, distributing forces evenly and preventing unbalanced loading that would cause head nut tilting. The lever arm geometry and actuator positioning create a balanced force system that maintains head nut alignment stability throughout the mounting and dismounting operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The tool allows for safe and secure mounting and dismounting of the retainer assembly, reducing the risk of thread damage and personal injury, while also extending the lifespan of the head nut and reducing replacement costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first and a second actuator mounted on the second plate at the periphery on opposite sides; a first and a second lever arm mounted on the first plate and mounted in connection to the first and the second actuator, respectively
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A tool (10) for a retainer assembly (100) of a gyratory crusher, the tool (10) being intended to be arranged around a shaft (1) of the crusher on top of a retainer assembly (100) securing a crushing shell (2), and wherein the tool (10) comprising: a first plate (16) being arranged on top of a second plate (15) and wherein the plates being able to rotate in relation to each other, and wherein the plates (16, 15) comprising a centered through hole coinciding with each other; the first plate (16) having a smaller outer periphery than the second plate (15); a first and a second actuator (13) mounted on the second plate (15) at the periphery on opposite sides; a first and a second lever arm (14) mounted on the first plate (16) and mounted in connection to the first and the second actuator (13), respectively, and wherein the lever arms (14) comprising gripping surfaces intended to be arranged around the shaft (1); a first and a second movable spigot (18) mounted on the first plate (16) in connection to the first and the second lever arm (14), respectively; and pins (11) mounted on the lower side (19) of the second plate (15) in order for the tool (10) being adapted to fit with the retainer assembly (100). A retainer assembly (100) to be used in connection to the tool, and a method for using a tool (10) in order to fastening a retainer assembly.