Lesson 2/Learning Event 1
Learning Event 1
DESCRIBE PLANT MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS
The purpose of this Learning Event is to give managers an overview of managerial aspects that should be kept in
mind when utilizing rock crushing equipment.
ASSIGNMENT OF TASKS
Commanders should assign rock crushing tasks that are commensurate with unit capabilities. Many times
additional rock crushing equipment is given to a unit that has its own TOE equipment, and some cases it is given
to units that have no TOE rock processing equipment. In such instances, it is imperative that the additional
personnel and maintenance support be provided these units to operate and maintain the equipment. In most cases,
personnel will have to be trained on these machines. Adequate time should be allotted for such transitions.
COMMAND AND CONTROL
The reduction of rock at the quarry face is the first step in the construction process. The processing of rock
through a crushing plant is the second step. Commanders should exercise a great deal of command interest and
control of this activity. Following are some aspects of this control:
Adequate Lead Time. Commanders should allow adequate lead time for the crushing plant to be designed and
erected. Once the plant is set up and put into operation, it is not likely that it will be shut down to make major
improvements in the facilities. Commanders should also calculate the time that will be needed to crush advance
stockpiles of aggregate for future construction operations. This is especially critical when planning asphalt and
concrete paving operations. Remember that support equipment and personnel will be needed to build a plant of
any size.
Maintenance of Equipment and Facilities. Commanders should inspect the maintenance of physical facilities
such as haul roads, drainage structures, buildings, and maintenance areas. A lack of attention to these areas can
cause future problems of such a magnitude that they will cause production delays.
Coordination. Commanders must coordinate operations between many parts of the quarry-rock crushing
operations. To maximize production of crushed rock, the quarry must supply the raw material in sufficient
amounts. The quarry personnel may have to construct a grizzly to remove oversize rock which the rock crushers
cannot handle with their equipment. An exchange of ideas and techniques between quarry and crusher personnel
will lead to improved utilization of equipment and increased production. Support unit such as maintenance
companies should be prepared technically to diagnose
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