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2026-08-09

Recycling Screens, Hammers & Knives: Signs Of Wear

Identify changes in recycling output, screen openings, hammer shape, and knife edges, and prepare details for replacement wear parts.

  • screens
  • hammers
  • recycling
  • hard steel
Formed steel screen panel with round perforations and both curved sides visible
In This Guide

Recycling screens, hammers, and knives wear as material passes through the machine. Changes in their dimensions or shape can affect product size, throughput, and maintenance needs.

Changes That May Indicate Wear

Watch for larger or less consistent output, enlarged screen openings, blunt cutting edges, chipped components, or new vibration. These changes can have several causes, so inspect the equipment and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidance.

Curved slotted steel grate segments on a pallet in the BSF factory

Screen Openings And Plate Condition

Screen openings can enlarge as material rubs against them. Cracks, thin sections between holes, or damaged mounting areas may also affect the screen’s performance.

Compare the worn screen with its original drawing or an unworn sample. Record the opening size, pattern, overall dimensions, and mounting arrangement when ordering a replacement.

Hammer Shape And Wear Across The Set

Hammer tips can lose their original shape as they repeatedly strike material. Uneven wear across a set may affect machine balance and operation.

Follow the equipment manufacturer’s requirements for inspection, replacement sets, and balancing. Do not assume that replacing only the most visibly worn hammer will resolve vibration.

Knife Edges And Mounting Details

Blunt, chipped, or damaged knife edges can affect cutting performance. A replacement needs to match the machine’s dimensions, mounting holes, and cutting geometry.

Machined recycling knife with a beveled cutting edge and mounting holes

Selecting Replacement Material

The appropriate material depends on the processed waste, abrasion, impact, corrosion, and the machine design. Hardox® grades are used for a range of recycling wear parts, but the grade and thickness need to suit the specific component.

Circular steel screen plate with round perforations and mounting holes

What To Include In An Enquiry

Send BSF the machine make and model, part drawing or sample, dimensions, hole pattern, and photos of the worn part. Explain what the machine processes and describe any change in output or vibration.

Include the current material and replacement history if available. These details help BSF discuss matching replacement wear parts and fabrication requirements.

Ask about replacement screens, hammers, or knives

Related Hardox® Video

Official footage from Hardox® Wearparts, Hardox Official, or SSAB® that matches this topic.

Hardox® Wearparts story on hard-steel solutions for tough recycling work.