In modern power generation, mining and industrial facilities, efficient and safe handling of coal, ore and other bulk materials plays a critical role. One of the most important machines used in stockyard operations is the Combined Stacker and Reclaimer – a combination of a stacker and a reclaimer in one high-performance machine.
This solution, used among others in TAKRAF systems, enables both efficient formation of material stockpiles and subsequent reclaiming and feeding of the material to crushers or further process stages.
How does a Combined Stacker and Reclaimer work?
The machine combines two functions:
- stacking, which means depositing material into stockpiles in a regular and controlled manner,
- reclaiming, which means collecting material from stockpiles and transferring it to a conveyor system or crusher.
This allows for optimal management of stockyard space, stable fuel preparation, and a reduction in both investment and operating costs. In coal handling applications, the machine ensures a continuous and uniform material flow, reducing the risk of downtime and damage to process equipment.
Why is it so important in coal handling?
Coal requires stable, uninterrupted feeding to the crushing and milling system. Irregular material flow can lead to crusher overloads, reduced processing capacity or the need for more frequent shutdowns. A Combined Stacker and Reclaimer enables material homogenization before it is fed to the crusher, which significantly improves process efficiency and extends equipment service life.
In addition, the use of this type of solution helps reduce dust emissions and operator labor costs. In mechanized installations, it also enables full automation of bulk material flow monitoring.
Case Study: TAKRAF system in a coal terminal
One example of this type of equipment in operation is a TAKRAF installation at a European power terminal. A Combined Stacker and Reclaimer with a capacity of over 4,000 t/h is responsible for handling the entire coal stockyard there – from receiving raw material from rail transport to feeding it to primary crushers.
Thanks to the continuous material recycling and homogenization system, the terminal reduced the number of downtimes by more than 30 percent, while wear of crusher consumable parts decreased by one third.
This clearly demonstrates how strongly a properly designed handling system can influence the efficiency of the entire process.
Summary
The Combined Stacker and Reclaimer is a foundation of modern installations for the storage and handling of coal and other bulk materials. By combining precise material stacking with stable reclaiming, the machine increases energy efficiency, reduces operating costs and ensures uninterrupted raw material flow to the crusher or conveyor system.
For companies looking for solutions with the highest level of reliability, TAKRAF technologies remain one of the most advanced and proven choices on the market.
