In strip mining, enormous quantities of coal, ore, or graphite are transported. This is a harsh environment with a lot of dust and dirt. The machinery, equipment, and materials used here must withstand extreme conditions, such as ambient temperatures ranging from –43°C to 50°C (109°F to 122°F). To redirect this raw material, so-called impact flaps are used. These impact flaps are moved and held in position by large Screw Jacks. However, the impact plates are not rigid; they need to be adjustable—both in the X and Y directions. This allows the impact flaps to be adjusted according to the type and quantity of material being transported.
Universal joint
A sophisticated solution is needed – robust and durable
For this demanding task, a robust and durable solution was sought. It was a tricky challenge, but the GROB engineers quickly presented the right solution: they simply developed a Screw Jack with a universal joint. As a result, the associated impact plate can now swivel in both the X and Y directions. With this design, the Screw Jack can swivel in all directions, and lateral forces can be avoided in all directions.
This technology is housed in a powerful BJ Screw Jack
A gearbox from the Cubic BJ series was used here. Characteristic of this series is the cubic housing shape, which offers better mounting options for various constructions due to its all-round machined surfaces. In this case, the gearbox load is around 50,000 N, and the load is shock-like. With the BJ4 Screw Jack used, maximum loads of up to 350 kN can be achieved – the BJ series can handle maximum static loads of up to 500 kN (BJ 5). The entire universal joint is made of galvanized steel with triple coating. A basic version was delivered. The spindle is protected by folding bellows to prevent dust and dirt from entering the gearbox.
This is how the basic version works
The worm shaft is driven by an electric motor, which rotates the worm gear. The worm gear is equipped with a trapezoidal thread. The spindle head is securely connected to the impact plate to prevent twisting. When the worm shaft is driven, it creates a linear lifting motion, causing the lifting spindle to move through the Screw Jack.
These are the main advantages of GROB Screw Jacks:
✅ Simple and cost-effective solution compared to hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
✅ A defined load can be lifted to a predefined position at a specified speed.
✅ Multiple Screw Jacks can be synchronized using cardan shafts and electronic control.
✅ Can exert the same forces in both compression and tension directions.
✅ Our modular system allows for many technically optimal and economically demanding solutions.
✅ Screw Jacks are valued by designers as standard machine components.
Do you have special requests? These variants are possible
The Screw Jacks by GROB Antriebstechnik GmbH can also be delivered in ATEX versions for explosion-proof applications. Other options include:
- With a buttress thread for high static loads
- With a ball screw for high-precision, low-backlash operation
- With additional oil lubrication for higher duty cycles and input speeds