CAFU Apron Feeder Deployed at European Mining Site

Case Study: CAFU Apron Feeder Enhances Efficiency in European Customer Mining Operation

In the demanding environment of modern mining crushing, reliable and uniform feeding ensures high crusher efficiency. This case study explores how CAFU Machinery's heavy-duty apron feeder revolutionized raw ore handling at our customer, delivering 2,500+ hours of designed specifically for apron feeder mining applications, this CE-MD-certified solution combines robust engineering with intelligent automation. solution combines robust engineering with intelligent automation to optimize productivity.

Project Background

Client Profile:

• Industry: Construction stone quarrying and crushing

• Location: Europe

• Challenge: Replacement of existing heavy-duty apron feeder prone to clogging and excessive downtime

Operational Demands:

• Processing 350 TPH of abrasive ore (80-500 mm block size)

• Withstand temperatures from -25°C (winter) to 40°C (summer)

• Minimize maintenance in high-dust environments

CAFU Apron Feeder Specifications

Engineering Innovations

1. Track-Type Chain Pans & Roller System

• Sealed Roller Design:

Labyrinth seals + lithium-complex grease reservoirs (IP67-rated)

Zero lubrication required for 10,000 operational hours

• Heavy-Duty Hoppers:

18 m³ wear plate 400 hopper (12 mm thickness)

Bolt-on replaceable liners (600 Brinell hardness)

2. Intelligent Drive System

• Dual Motor Configuration:

2×11 kW Inverter Motor

With motorized cooling fan

• Variable Frequency Drive (VFD):

Adjust speed (0.05–0.3 m/s) to match crusher feed demand

Energy savings: 15–20% vs. fixed-speed feeders

3. Structural Integrity

Main Frame: Welded steel construction with 120×120×10mm cross members

Impact Zones: Wear plate 400 is resistant to abrasion

Technical Advantages for Mining Applications

1. Abrasion Resistance

• Wear Plate 400 Pans: 4x longer lifespan vs. AR235 steel in silica-rich ores

• Track Chain: Forged alloy steel links (40CrMnMo) with induction-hardened surfaces

2. Maintenance Optimization

• Quick-Release Pan System: Replace pans in 45 minutes 

• Hopper Bolt-On Liner: Replace liners in 60 minutes

3. Environmental Adaptability

• Arctic-grade lubricants (-40°C compatibility)

• Dust-proof electrical enclosures (IP66)

Why This Matters for Mining Operations

1. Cost Efficiency: Reduced energy and maintenance costs save €12,000+ annually

2. Safety: Emergency stop systems and guarded drive units comply with ISO 13849

CAFU's Apron Feeder Differentiation

Certifications & Compliance

• CE-MD: Full compliance with EU safety standards

Conclusion

The success of this apron feeder mining project underscores CAFU’s ability to deliver robust, custom solutions for the harshest environments. By combining CAFU technology, maintenance-free components, and adaptive drive systems, we empower mines to achieve:

• 20% higher material throughput

• 50% lower lifecycle costs

• 100% compliance with EU regulations

Upgrade Your Material Handling Today

Whether you are upgrading your quarry's crushing line or deploy a new apron feeder for a new mining line, CAFU's technological advantage in product manufacturing will ensure that we provide you with an ore feeder solution that will exceed your expectations.