Superior mill liners, service and support combine to improve mine’s success

A winning combination of process experience, products and service

Defining the project

Shell liner life is a crucial component in a mine’s up-time, efficiency and output, and this this mine owner knows that not all mill liners are created equal.

In order to accurately compare the wear life of two different suppliers’ composite mill liners, it was determined that a side-by-side test of the liners would be undertaken.

Side-by-side testing allowed both suppliers’ liners to be exposed to exactly the same mill conditions, at exactly the same time.

FLS proposed to the mine that they trial our Composite Shell Mill Liners. FLS anticipated that the liners would last 120 days, reduce the total weight, avoid cracks and allow a higher ball charge level without increasing the stress on the mill.

The solution

The installation comprised three FE Shell Lifters and three FE Shell Liner Plates. The competitor also installed their liners in the same mill. The trial protocol was established, and it was determined that technical reports would be presented at the time of installation and during the mid-campaign shutdown. A final report would also be delivered.

In addition to supplying high-performance, lightweight composite mill liners, FLS made frequent site visits to provide any needed services, checks or adjustments.

The mid-campaign inspection revealed the Composite Shell Mill Liners displayed wear patterns and wear ratios as initially expected. Most importantly, there were no cracks or adherence problems between the rubber matrix and the steel inserts. Additionally, based on the wear patterns and wear ratios, liner life was forecast to exceed the expected 120 days.

At the final inspection, FLS used 3D scanning technology to examine the liners. Then, they removed the liners for further analysis.