Which Materials Are Used for Bimetallic Crusher Hammer Heads and Shanks?

A bimetallic crusher hammer combines a wear-resistant working head with a tougher shank. Review material choices, bonding quality and the details needed for custom manufacture.

Different sections perform different jobs

A bimetallic hammer is designed to combine a wear-resistant working section with a tougher mounting section. The head contacts the feed, while the shank and pin-bore region support the hammer and transmit loads to the rotor.

The objective is a practical balance of abrasion resistance, impact resistance and structural integrity. Neither section should be specified solely on the basis of a maximum hardness value.

The working head: wear-resistant high chromium material

High chromium cast iron is one material option for the working section. Its carbide-containing structure can resist abrasive wear, provided that the alloy and heat treatment are suitable for the application.

Chromium content, carbon content and the required hardness depend on the specified grade and process. The suitability of a high chromium head also depends on feed size, impact severity and the risk of tramp metal; it should not be assumed to suit every hard-rock duty.

The shank: strength, toughness and fatigue resistance

The mounting section needs sufficient strength and toughness around the pin bore and other loaded areas. Medium-carbon low-alloy steel is one possible choice, with the grade and heat treatment confirmed for the design loads.

Dimensions, bore tolerance, section transitions, mass and operating speed are important inputs. A tough shank reduces one source of risk, but it does not eliminate the need to check the complete hammer design and operating conditions.

The bonding process is part of the specification

Composite casting may use controlled pouring of two molten metals or casting a wear-resistant section around a prepared support. The process must control the interface between the two materials.

The presence of a metallurgical bond should be supported by appropriate process control and agreed inspection or qualification records. Do not assume that every composite interface is stronger than every alternative joint, or that the interface can never fail.

Information for a custom order

Red Apple Casting can review drawings, samples or pattern information for a custom hammer. Provide the crusher model, hammer dimensions, pin bore, single-piece mass, material being processed, feed size and any history of cracking or uneven wear.

Agree the material grades, heat treatment, interface requirements and acceptance criteria before manufacture. Actual service life should be assessed from operating records for comparable duty.

For equipment fit, material selection and custom casting enquiries, see our wear parts FAQ or contact Red Apple Casting.