Metso has introduced a suite of media handling systems—comprising media pumping, charging, and lifting solutions—designed to streamline and enhance the efficiency and safety of stirred mill maintenance operations.
These standalone, pre-engineered systems aim to reduce shutdown times, boost labor productivity, and minimize safety risks during mill media handling. According to Jesse Ting, Manager of Grinding Systems at Metso, “Our solutions can cut shutdown times from over 10 hours to just 3, improve labor efficiency, and eliminate up to 80% of manual handling hazards. They are scalable and customizable to meet specific customer requirements.”
Key Features of Metso’s Media Handling Systems:
1. Media Pumping System (MPS):
Tailored for ceramic media used in HIGmill™ and SMD (Stirred Media Detritor) mills, the MPS streamlines media movement and storage before and after shutdowns. It includes pumps for media transfer, a screen to filter slurry particles and undersized media, and a storage bin or hopper.
2. Media Charging System (MCS):
Designed for steel media used in Vertimill® mills, the MCS enhances maintenance efficiency by automating reloading and daily feeding of fresh media. The mobile system includes an elevator module (with a hopper, belt feeder, and pocket conveyor) and a media distribution network with conveyors and diverter chutes.
3. Media Lifting System (MLS):
Providing a cost-effective yet safe solution for steel media handling, the MLS is an upgrade over conventional methods. It includes a kibble loading chute, a dedicated kibble, load-out bin, and optional monorail and hoist system, all housed within a purpose-built support structure.
Together, these systems represent a significant step forward in mill maintenance efficiency, offering safer, faster, and more reliable media handling for industrial grinding operations.
