McLanahan Corporation’s Dewatering Screens Troubleshooting Guide can help you find the probable cause of situations such as if the screen is making noise, the cake discharge is too wet and more.
Dewatering Screen Maintenance
What should be inspected/maintained on a dewatering screen?
- Listen for unusual noise and look for non-linear/irregular motion (check the motion indicator decal for motion and stroke on the side plate of the screen). Don’t be too concerned about material tracking to the side in lightly loaded screens.
- Check the rubber buffers for sag.
- Check all screen media surfaces for cracks/holes and wear.
- Check side plates and bridge for cracks (not uncommon in vibratory screens).
Why do I have to use a special grease for the vibratory motors?
The manufacturer’s recommendation, where applicable, must be followed to ensure correct performance and warranty validity.
Why use rubber buffers rather than steel springs, and when do I replace the rubber buffers?
Rubber isolation mounts, or buffers, typically perform better in wet environments where corrosion can be a problem. Replace the buffers when they sag off-center or when the height of the buffers is below the minimum recommended (see the chart in the manual). Always replace buffers as a complete set of four.
How often should the screen media be replaced?
Dewatering Screen media typically lasts longer than sizing screen media. Check the media surfaces once a week for cracks and oversized holes/slots. Remove and replace the media as necessary, following the manual's instructions. Check the attachment of any fitted divider.
Operational Best Practices
How should I feed the screen?
Feed the screen at >35% solids by weight (for 2.7 SG materials).
What do I do if the sand coming off the end of the screen is too wet?
- Check Cyclone/Separator underflow for density.
- Check Classifying Tank discharge for being too dilute.
- Consider installing cross-dams if water is encroaching too far up to the screen discharge end.
- Consider increasing the aperture size of the panels if the product is too wet (check with the factory to confirm any process limitations).
- Check screen motion to confirm stroke shape and amplitude – typically 10mm and linear. This action is critical in the performance of the screen.
McLanahan Corporation recommends you keep certain spare parts available at your facility for repairs that may need to be made as a result of routine maintenance checks.
Part Name | Quantity |
| Electric Motors | 2 |
| Motor Studs | 1 Set |
| Rubber Buffers | 1 Set |
| Screen Media | 1 Set |
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