Metso Enhances Screening Safety with Fire-Retardant Rubber Technology

Metso Oyj has launched its Trellex® fire-retardant rubber screening media, engineered to improve safety in screening processes at mining and aggregate operations. The technology aims to mitigate the risk of fire ignition and spread, which can lead to significant downtime and safety hazards.

Rubber components are widely used in screening equipment due to their flexibility and durability. However, hot work activities like welding and cutting, or contact with high-temperature residues, can pose an ignition risk. Metso's new fire-retardant rubber compound is designed to be self-extinguishing and limit fire spread. The material meets the UL94 V-0 standard, indicating it self-extinguishes within 10 seconds after flame application without igniting cotton below.

The fire-retardant technology can be applied across the entire screening process, including screen panels, feedbox and discharge liners, and side liners. This offers a consistent approach to fire risk management and helps prevent wider plant disruptions. Metso states that the new material offers comparable wear life and screening efficiency to conventional rubber solutions.

These products have undergone extensive testing in demanding applications, demonstrating comparable performance, wear life, and dimensional stability. Two material options are available: T40 for finer screening and T60 for medium to coarse screening. The technology is compatible with both Metso equipment and third-party screens, allowing for flexibility in retrofits and new installations. Metso's specialists provide guidance for selecting the most suitable solution.