Finedoor have recently supplied two screens to Hafod Quarry near Newport, South Wales.

Owned and operated by Lafarge the site produces around 250,000 tonnes of gritstone per year; a proportion of which is destined for the on-site coating plant with the remainder being processed for sale as coated stone or aggregates to local markets.

The plant has recently undergone some considerable refurbishment which required the replacement of two screens. Initially replacing an existing screen with a 4.3 x 1.8 mtr - 2 deck scalping screen, Finedoor, after further consultation were asked to replace a second asphalt screen.

The requirement not only required the replacement of the existing screen but to custom design a new asphalt screen that would allow easier access when changing screen meshes. This was achieved by making several modifications which included alterations to the existing elevator position by one metre.

This modification then allowed Finedoor to manufacture a screen which provided a substantial increase in depth between decks providing much easier access. The 5 x 1.8 - 3.1/2 mtr deck asphalt screen was designed, manufactured and enclosed within a special steel cabinet. Finedoor also supplied discharge manifolds, an electric ‘V' belt drive and access platforms to complete the project.

Because of the high wear rate gritstone causes to screen decks it is important that deck replacement can be carried out as quickly and safely as possible and the increase in distance between each deck will allow the task to be carried out in a manner which meets both these aims.

Phil Spivey - Quarry Manager commented, "Both screen installations were completed on schedule with work taking place over weekends to ensure no disruption to production - neither screen gave us any problems during commissioning"