In hammer blades for mulching or shredding, there are two options for the operators to decide on. That namely fixed and replaceable blades. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses. They have differences in performance and durability. This article focuses on the main aspects of fixed and replaceable flail hammer blades.
Understanding Fixed Hammer Blades
The fixed hammer blades are characterized by a permanent installation on the hammer assembly. Usually, the cutting edges are constructed from high-carbon steel or carbide, and these are meant to be used for lengthy periods in very rigorous environments. The major benefit of fixed hammer blades is that they are very durable. Since they are directly connected to the hammer. They are capable of withstanding stress and abrasive materials in the long run. This makes them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Nevertheless, fixed hammer blades have some drawbacks. After the blade becomes damaged, it cannot be replaced. This may be expensive and time-consuming to have a new one. Also, fixed blades are usually less flexible when it comes to maintenance as compared to replaceable ones, which may translate to high operational costs in the long run.
Exploring Replaceable Hammer Blades
Hammer blades are made to be replaced since they are easily worn out or damaged and this makes it possible to replace them easily. These blades are fitted on the hammer assembly with provisions for easy change of the blades. The first benefit associated with replaceable hammer blades is that it is easy to maintain them. Operators can change individual blades without having to remove or replace the whole hammer assembly hence saving on time and costs.
It is also possible to replace the hammer blades, which leads to more stable results. This is because by replacing the worn blades in time, the operators can achieve the best cutting results, and efficiency which are very important in achieving the desired results. Nonetheless, replaceable hammer blades are usually more expensive at the onset because of the extra mounting structures and spare parts that are required. This can result in having to make more initial capital expenditures and having to store more spare blades.
Comparing Cost and Maintenance
The difference between fixed and replaceable hammer blades is mainly in the aspects of cost and maintenance. Fixed hammer blades are relatively cheaper in the initial stages but may prove expensive in the long run due to the total hammer blade replacement. On the other hand, hammer blades that can be replaced are cheaper to acquire in the first place but can be easily replaced at a cheaper price. It can be replaced individually, which means that most of the time, the downtime can be greatly reduced and overall maintenance costs can be a lot lower.
Conclusion
Several factors determine whether to use fixed or replaceable hammer blades in their operation, maintenance, and cost. Fixed hammer blades are more long-lasting and cheaper initially but it may call for huge expenses on maintenance and replacement. Fixed hammer blades are cheaper, but require the replacement of the whole hammer while replaceable hammer blades are more expensive but more convenient and reliable, and require extra spare parts. It is recommended that these factors be used to assess the appropriate hammer blade design that would be most effective in the operations of the concerned operators.