Abstract: The present invention relates to a rock crushing apparatus. Known apparatus operate on the distinct principles of compression crushing (compression between moving surfaces) or impact crushing (compression via high velocity rock impacting a surface). Both types of apparatus have disadvantages in the quality of the crushed product, energy inefficiency or high rotor wear rates. The apparatus (1) comprises a rotor (2) comprising a number of reciprocating (11) and fixed compression crushing elements (12, 13) to compression crush the rock between adjacent reciprocating and fixed surfaces. The positioning of these elements (11, 12, 13) within the rotor performs an arresting action on the rock to limit the maximum radial velocity (Vr) the rock attains before its ejection from the compression crushing elements (11, 12, 13) for impact crushing on an adjacent surface. In this way the disadvantages of compression and impact crushing are minimized to produce a superior product.

Abstract: A drilling apparatus including a hydraulically powered hammer having a piston to impact a drill bit; a shuttle valve to control reciprocation of the piston; and an accumulator for hydraulic fluid; at least one drill rod having a first connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the connection valve of the hammer; and a second connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the first connection valve of a like drill rod or to a rotation device. The piston and shuttle valve are positioned substantially in-line to the axis of movement of the hammer. The accumulator is positioned proximate to the shuttle valve; and the first connection valve, and second connection valve having at least one poppet valve positioned proximate to a corresponding valve seat.

Abstract: A drilling apparatus including a hydraulically powered hammer having a piston to impact a drill bit; a shuttle valve to control reciprocation of the piston; and an accumulator for hydraulic fluid; at least one drill rod having a first connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the connection valve of the hammer; and a second connection valve for connection of the drill rod to the first connection valve of a like drill rod or to a rotation device. The piston and shuttle valve are positioned substantially in-line to the axis of movement of the hammer. The accumulator is positioned proximate to the shuttle valve; and the first connection valve, and second connection valve having at least one poppet valve positioned proximate to a corresponding valve seat.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rock crushing apparatus. Known apparatus operate on the distinct principles of compression crushing (compression between moving surfaces) or impact crushing (compression via high velocity rock impacting a surface). Both types of apparatus have disadvantages in the quality of the crushed product, energy inefficiency or high rotor wear rates. The apparatus (1) comprises a rotor (2) comprising a number of reciprocating (11) and fixed compression crushing elements (12, 13) to compression crush the rock between adjacent reciprocating and fixed surfaces. The positioning of these elements (11, 12, 13) within the rotor performs an arresting action on the rock to limit the maximum radial velocity (Vr) the rock attains before its ejection from the compression crushing elements (11, 12, 13) for impact crushing on an adjacent surface. In this way the disadvantages of compression and impact crushing are minimised to produce a superior product.