What does a hammer mill do?

The fundamental concept is simple. A hammer mill comprises a robust steel drum housing a vertical or horizontal rotating shaft or drum, equipped with mounted hammers. These hammers can freely swing at the ends of the cross or be fixed to the central rotor. As the rotor spins at high speed within the drum, materials are introduced through a feed hopper. Upon entering, the material is subjected to the forceful impact of the hammer bars, resulting in its shredding and subsequent expulsion through screens of specific sizes located in the drum.

The versatility of the hammer mill extends its utility beyond mere shredding. It can function as a primary, secondary, or tertiary crusher, adapting to various industrial needs.

Hammer mills designed for processing small grains can operate using household electrical current. Conversely, larger hammer mills utilized in automotive shredders may rely on diesel or electric motors with power outputs ranging from 2000 to over 5000 horsepower (1.5 – 3.7MW).

An innovative variation, the screenless hammer mill, utilizes air flow to segregate small particles from larger ones. This design not only enhances reliability but also boasts cost-effectiveness and improved energy efficiency compared to conventional hammer mills. Ultimately, the design and configuration of a hammer mill are tailored to suit its intended application and end use.