What's the output of deck screen?
Understanding how much material you can process through a deck screen depends on two major factors: the size of the screen box and the type of material being screened. This guide provides a practical overview to help you estimate throughput rates for different scenarios, supporting better equipment selection and operational planning.
Key factors affecting throughput
- Screen Box Size: Larger screen boxes generally allow greater material flow, increasing throughput.
- Material Type: The bulk density, moisture content, and particle size of the material all impact screening efficiency and speed.
- Screen Aperture Size: Larger apertures allow faster material flow but may reduce separation accuracy.
Typical deck screen box sizes and throughput ranges
| Screen Box Size (m²) | Example Dimensions (m | Estimated Throughput (t/hr) – Light Material | Estimated Throughput (t/hr) – Heavy Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 | 2.0 x 1.0 | 20-35 | 35-50 |
| 3.0 | 2.5 x 1.2 | 30-50 | 50-70 |
| 4.0 | 3.0 x 1.3 | 40-65 | 60-90 |
| 5.0 | 3.5 x 1.4 | 50-80 | 80-110 |
Note: Throughput values are estimates and will vary based on material properties and screen setup.
Material types and their impact
- Light Materials (e.g., compost, woodchips, dry soil): Lower density, easier to move, but may be affected by wind or moisture.
- Heavy Materials (e.g., gravel, aggregate, wet soil): Higher density, may require slower screening to avoid overloading.
- Moist or Sticky Materials: Can clog screens, reducing throughput. Consider anti-blinding measures or adjust feed rates.
Practical examples
- Compost on a 3.0 m² Deck Screen: Expect 30–50 t/hr under average conditions.
- Aggregate on a 5.0 m² Deck Screen: Can reach up to 110 t/hr, but monitor for screen wear and overload.
- Wet Soil on a 2.0 m² Deck Screen: Throughput may drop below 20 t/hr if material is sticky.
Tips for optimising throughput
- Select the largest practical screen box for your site and material.
- Match screen aperture size to the material’s particle size and desired separation.
- Keep screens clean and clear of blockages.
- Adjust feed rate to prevent overloading or underutilization.
For bespoke sizing or specific material testing, contact Spitfire Engineering for tailored recommendations.
