When investing in crushing equipment, understanding capacity is crucial for planning projects, managing costs, and maximising operational efficiency. Whether you’re processing demolition waste, recycling construction materials, or working in quarrying, knowing what your crusher can handle directly impacts your bottom line.
In this guide, we’ll explain what determines crusher capacity, how different types of crushers perform, and how Red Rhino’s British-manufactured jaw crushers deliver proven performance you can rely on.
Understanding crusher capacity
Crusher capacity refers to the amount of material a piece of equipment can process within a specific time frame, typically measured in tonnes per hour (TPH). This figure helps you determine whether a crusher suits your production requirements and whether it can keep pace with your site operations without creating bottlenecks.
Several factors influence how many tons per hour a crusher can process:
Material characteristics
The hardness, moisture content, and size of the material all play a crucial role in crusher performance. Harder materials will require more energy to break down, which can reduce throughput. Similarly, wet or clay-rich materials with high moisture content may clog screens and slow production. The size of the raw material also matters—larger feed sizes demand more powerful crushers with wider jaw.
Crusher type and design
Different types of crushers are suited to various applications. Jaw crushers excel at primary crushing and handling large, abrasive materials. Cone crushers and gyratory crushers are typically used as secondary crushers for finer output.
Output size
The desired output size affects capacity. Producing smaller output sizes requires a tighter closed side setting , which reduces the discharge opening and slows material flow. Conversely, larger output sizes increase throughput. Additionally, factors like the speed of the crusher, the width of the jaw aperture, and the horsepower of the engine all influence maximum output.
Crusher tons per hour: what can you expect?
Capacity varies widely depending on the size of the crusher and application requirements. Smaller, compact crushers may process 6–8 TPH, making them ideal for landscaping, small demolition jobs, and restricted-access sites. Mid-range crushers typically handle 15–20 TPH, suitable for general construction and recycling operations. Large crushers designed for quarrying and mining industries (like our RR 8000) can process up to 100 TPH, processing substantial volumes for high-demand projects.
Understanding your production capacity needs helps you select the right crusher type and avoid operational costs associated with undersized or oversized equipment.
What types of crushers are best for construction industries?
Jaw crushers are ideal for primary crushing in construction, demolition, and recycling. They handle large feed sizes and abrasive materials effectively. Cone crushers and impact crushers are used as secondary crushers for finer output. Red Rhino jaw crushers offer versatility across multiple applications.
How do I choose the right crusher for my production requirements?
Consider the amount of material you need to process, the raw material type, desired size, and site access. Smaller crushers suit restricted sites and landscaping, while larger models are better for quarrying and high-demand projects. Contact Red Rhino to discuss your application requirements and get tailored advice.
Red Rhino’s range: British-built jaw crushers for every application
Red Rhino designs and manufactures jaw crushers that combine durability, ease of use, and impressive throughput. Each machine is built in our Grantham facility using the best materials and advanced engineering technology, ensuring long-term reliability across construction industries, demolition, quarrying, and recycling.
RR 4000: Compact power for restricted sites
The RR 4000 is a 400mm x 170mm jaw crusher designed for small-scale crushing. Despite its compact size—narrow enough to pass through a standard doorway—it delivers up to 6–8 tons per hour. Hydraulically adjustable jaws allow output sizes from 20mm to 80mm, giving you control over the desired output size without stopping the machine.
This model is ideal for landscaping projects, back garden sites, and locations with limited access. It’s simple to operate, cheap to run, and eliminates muck-away bills by turning waste into reusable aggregate on-site.
RR 5000 Plus: Powerful and versatile
The RR 5000 Plus features a 500mm x 250mm jaw aperture and a hydraulically driven vibrating feeder for consistent material flow. With output ranging from 20mm to 100mm and capacity up to 15–20 tons per hour, this crusher handles reinforced concrete, brick, and porcelain with ease.
At just 1665mm wide, the 5000 Plus navigates restricted sites while delivering the production capacity needed for medium-sized demolition and construction projects. Dust suppression is standard, and wireless remote control allows safe, efficient one-man operation.
RR 7000: Heavy-duty performance
The RR 7000 jaw crusher offers a 700mm x 400mm jaw aperture and a hydraulically driven vibratory tray. Grizzly bars separate fines from material entering the jaw, improving efficiency and reducing wear. Hydraulic adjustable jaws provide output sizes from 30mm to 120mm, and the feeder speed can be controlled remotely.
This model is built for large demolition projects and applications requiring high throughput. Adding a magnet conveyor removes steel from rubble, creating an additional revenue stream by recycling scrap metal. The 7000 balances power, transportability, and versatility.
RR 8000: Built for quarries and large-scale demolition
The RR 8000 is Red Rhino’s largest crusher to date, featuring an 800mm x 500mm jaw action crusher and a hydraulically driven vibrating tray. Designed for quarry use and major demolition jobs, this machine processes high volumes with a deeper crushing chamber (800mm x 500mm x1300mm) for increased throughput.
Standard features include a wireless remote control system, hydraulically foldable grizzly feeder sides for easier transport, and instant hydraulic jaw adjustment on the fly. Output sizes range from 30mm to 120mm, and the longer conveyor provides an extra metre of stockpile height, reducing downtime and repositioning.
Weighing 18 tonnes, the 8000 is easily transportable yet built with a cast crusher box for superior durability.
Why choose Red Rhino?
Red Rhino jaw crushers are designed with the operator in mind. Intuitive controls, easy maintenance access, and no-nonsense operation mean minimal training and maximum productivity. Our machines are built for durability, with build quality that stands up to the toughest conditions.
We provide exceptional after-sales support, with service engineers available nationwide and a dedicated parts sales operation. Our machines operate in over 10 countries, proving their reliability in various applications from mining industries to construction and demolition.
Get a free quote from Red Rhino today
Choosing the right crusher is a critical factor in controlling operational costs and maximising productivity. Red Rhino’s British-designed and manufactured jaw crushers deliver the throughput, durability, and versatility you need for any project.
Get in touch today to discuss your needs and receive a free, no-obligation quote:
Fill out our online contact form, call us on +44 1476 590790, or email info@redrhinocrushers.net .Our team is ready to help you find the perfect crusher for your business.