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Behind the Machine: McLanahan’s New MaxCap Design Features Improved Safety, Durability and Throughput

McLanahan has added a new model to its line of MaxCap Impact Crushers that is designed to accept larger feed sizes at high production rates using less horsepower.


The MaxCap 1650 features a large feed opening of 65” wide and can discharge a nominal 6” material.

“The capacity of the MaxCap Primary Impactor models are impressive and make them a leader where a high production unit is needed,” said Nick Ford, Product Manager for McLanahan’s crushing and screening equipment line. “You have the ability to feed this new MaxCap primary up to 1,650 tons an hour in limestone material and produce a nominal 6” minus.”

The MaxCap is the name given to McLanahan’s line of hybrid crushers that combine the features of the well-known Andreas- and New Holland-style impactors. Developed in the early 1990s, McLanahan’s MaxCap Impact Crushers are characterized by the large expansion chamber associated with the New Holland style but with the ease of maintenance common to the Andreas style.

The 1650 is the latest model in the MaxCap line, re-designed to replace the MaxCap 1400 model. It is 5” wider than its predecessor and built heavier to increase durability and productivity. The rotor is also larger in diameter than the previous 1400 model.

“We feel the reduction ratio will be as good if not better than the older models. With the new design, the reliability will improve to provide a higher percentage of uptime and durability, resulting in a primary that will last for many years,” Ford explained.

He added: “What’s nice about the MaxCap over the standard Andreas design is the use of less horsepower, so the savings in electrical costs are significant.”

Plus, with a high reduction ratio, more cubical finished product is produced at the primary. In many cases, the MaxCap 1650 may reduce the size of secondary crusher required.

“There are so many benefits to the new MaxCap design,” shared Ford.

Although it is a new design, Ford said the Maxcap 1650 model has retained the popular elements for which the line has become known.

“We haven’t sacrificed any of the old features that producers have enjoyed throughout the history of the MaxCap,” Ford explained.

These features include a hydraulically adjustable feed plate to free slabby material and a hydraulically adjustable breaker plate to control the gap setting.

A new feature on the MaxCap 1650 is the hydraulic hood locking mechanism that keeps the crusher hood closed during operation. The four hood locks, two on each side of the crusher, retract at the push of a button to allow the hood to be opened for maintenance – no tools required.


After the crusher hood is closed, the locks extend to hold the hood closed. Proximity sensors prevent the crusher from operating if the hood is not closed properly or completely. On other types of impactors, the crusher hood is held closed with a series of bolts that need to be manually released.

“The hood locking mechanism eliminates the frustration of locating tools and eliminates the concern of possible injury. This design instills confidence to the operator that the crusher is closed.” said Ford. “We’re all about safety at McLanahan.”

The other models in the MaxCap equipment lineup have also been re-engineered to offer more production, higher durability and longer life. These also feature the adjustable feed plate, breaker bar and hydraulic hood locks, as well as offer a better reduction ratio at lower electrical costs.

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