June 20, 2025
Grinding mills are essential equipment in mineral processing, cement production, and other industries requiring size reduction. Proper operation ensures optimal performance, longevity, and safety. This guide details standardized procedures for operating grinding mills, with special recommendations for high-efficiency models like our SCM Ultrafine Mill and MTW Series Trapezium Mill.
1. Pre-Operation Checks
1.1 Equipment Inspection
- Verify all fasteners (bolts, nuts) are tightened to specified torque values.
- Check lubrication levels in gearboxes and bearings; refill with approved grease if needed.
- Inspect grinding elements (e.g., rollers, rings) for wear or damage.
1.2 Safety Systems
- Test emergency stop buttons and overload protection devices.
- Ensure dust collection systems (e.g., pulse filters) are functional.
Recommended Pre-Operation Checklist
| Item |
Standard |
Action if Non-Compliant |
| Gearbox Oil Level |
Between min/max marks |
Refill to midpoint |
| Bearing Temperature |
<70°C (158°F) |
Investigate overheating |
2. Startup Sequence
2.1 Cold Start Procedure
- Engage auxiliary systems (dust collector, classifier, cooling water).
- Jog the main motor to check rotation direction (must match arrow indicator).
- Gradually increase speed to 30% rated RPM for 5 minutes to warm bearings.
2.2 Loading Material
- Feed material at 20-30% of rated capacity initially.
- Monitor motor current: Stable operation should be within 85-95% of rated amperage.
3. Operational Optimization
3.1 Parameter Adjustment
For our SCM Ultrafine Mill (output: 325-2500 mesh):
- Classifier Speed: Increase for finer powder (e.g., 2500 mesh requires 1200 RPM).
- Grinding Pressure: Maintain 8-10MPa for optimal efficiency.
3.2 Performance Monitoring
Key Parameters for MTW Series Trapezium Mill
| Model |
Vibration (mm/s) |
Noise (dB) |
Max. Bearing Temp. |
| MTW110 |
≤2.5 |
≤75 |
65°C |
| MTW215G |
≤3.8 |
≤78 |
70°C |
4. Shutdown Protocol
- Stop feed system first; allow residual material to process (typically 3-5 minutes).
- Gradually reduce main motor speed over 2 minutes to prevent thermal shock.
- Run dust collector for 10 extra minutes to clear residual particles.
5. Maintenance Recommendations
5.1 Daily Tasks
- Check wear parts thickness (e.g., grinding rollers should be replaced at 60% wear).
- Record vibration trends; investigate spikes exceeding 20% baseline.
5.2 Quarterly Overhauls
For our SCM Ultrafine Mill with patented roller assembly:
- Replace classifier blades if imbalance causes >5% output variation.
- Inspect hydraulic cylinders for pressure leaks (tolerance: ±0.5MPa).
Adhering to these procedures maximizes the performance of grinding mills like our energy-efficient SCM series (30% lower energy consumption) and high-capacity MTW trapezium mills (up to 45 TPH). Always consult the specific manual for your equipment model.
