In April 2023, a mining company in Jiande, Hangzhou, purchased a Suhman SF-380 mobile impact crusher and an SS-7018 mobile screening machine to process mixed mountain stone aggregate. By April 2026, the equipment had been in continuous operation for three years, achieving an average daily output of 1,600–2,000 tons. It produced four specifications of finished aggregate—0–5mm, 5–10mm, 10–20mm, and 20–35mm—supplying local concrete mixing plants and highway projects.

Why did the customer choose a mobile crusher?

The owner, Mr. Chen, acquired the mining site in 2023; with reserves of approximately 1.5 million tons, the project was expected to conclude within three years. He faced a choice: a stationary production line required a large investment and a long construction period—meaning the line might not pay for itself before the mine was exhausted—whereas a mobile crusher could start working immediately upon arrival and was easy to relocate. Additionally, given Hangzhou's strict environmental regulations, mobile equipment offered lower compliance costs. The units were purchased in March 2023 and put into operation in April, marking a full three years of service.

Key Operational Data (Three-Year Period)

Production Capacity: Hourly output was 210 tons at the start and stabilized at around 190 tons after three years—a decline of approximately 10%. Mr. Chen considers this drop acceptable; the key factor is stability, ensuring production schedules remain unaffected.

Wear Parts Lifespan and Cost: Blow bars were replaced approximately every 800 hours (a proactive measure to ensure the content of needle-like and flaky particles in the finished product remained within limits). The total cost for wear parts over three years was about 300,000 RMB, averaging 1.5–2 RMB per ton of stone—a figure Mr. Chen regards as low-to-moderate within the industry.

Hydraulics and Electrics: The hydraulic system operated without failure for three years, requiring only routine oil changes every 1,000 hours. The electrical system experienced two minor issues (a loose sensor and aging wiring), both resolved within half an hour, with no major downtime.

Fuel Consumption: Averaged approximately 20 liters per hour. Based on a diesel price of 7.5 RMB/liter, the fuel cost per ton of material was about 0.8–1 RMB. While the power consumption of an impact crusher is slightly higher than that of a jaw crusher, its high reduction ratio and ability achieve the desired product shape in a single pass make it economically efficient overall. 

Mobile Crushing vs. Stationary Lines: A Customer's Perspective

Old Chen believes mobile crushing suits his specific situation: limited reserves, scattered mining sites, a quick return on investment (ROI)—about 10 months—and minimal pressure regarding environmental approvals. The downsides are also clear: lower production capacity compared to stationary lines (200 tph vs. over 500 tph), slightly higher spare parts costs, and a need for more skilled operators.

His conclusion is pragmatic: choose a stationary line for large mines or long-term operations; opt for mobile crushing for small-to-medium mines, scattered sites, or specific engineering projects.

Purchasing Advice

Consider total cost of ownership, not just the base machine price: "Cheap" equipment often comes with short-lived parts and high fuel consumption, making it more expensive in the long run.

Examine real-world operational cases: specifications can be embellished, but actual performance data doesn't lie.

Focus on the after-sales service network: equipment downtime means lost revenue. Key factors include whether the manufacturer has local service points, how fast they respond, and their spare parts inventory.

Select equipment based on rock type: use a jaw crusher plus a cone crusher for hard rock (granite, basalt); use an impact crusher for medium-hard rock and construction waste; and use a dedicated sand-making machine for sand production. Old Chen processes medium-hard mountain stone, so an impact crusher is the perfect fit.

Maintain a stock of spare parts: keep a set of common parts—such as blow bars, liners, screen meshes, and filter elements—on hand to avoid work delays while waiting for replacements.

Summary

Old Chen has been running this line for three years, enjoying stable output, minimal breakdowns, reasonable parts costs, and excellent after-sales support. As he puts it: "Equipment isn't for show; it's for getting the job done. Stability, reliability, and after-sales support matter more than the price tag."

If you are considering mobile crushing and screening equipment, you are welcome to visit us. We can arrange site visits to see various types of equipment in action. The job site is the ultimate proof of quality!