What is a Trommel?

The simple definition of a trommel is mining machinery consisting of a cylindrical drum that has many holes of a given size. A trommel has a rotating circular mesh drum that sorts materials based on their size. The mesh allows smaller materials such as soil and sand to fall through and be collected by a conveyer under the drum. The larger materials flow to the end of the trommel where they are gathered into a separate pile.

Throughout the recycling process, fine materials are produced that are difficult to separate and use in recycling equipment. These are known as trommel fines, and due to their difficult nature, they typically end up being sent to landfill.

What is a trommel used for?

Trommels are ideal for screening a broad range of materials and they are the first choice for wet and sticky organic substances including soil, sand, wood pellets/chips, compost and much more. Primarily, trommel screens are used to sort damp materials that would otherwise be left to dry for weeks before sorting. They are partially dried when they are mixed, reducing the chances of blinding and plugging. They can be utilized across a range of job sites, but you will most likely find them working in industries involving agriculture, mining, construction, waste management, or landscaping.

Choosing the trommel for your job

There are a number of important factors to consider when deciding the model of trommel you may require. Considerations should include the machine design, the customization and the production rates.

Machine design includes deciding where this machine will be working as space can become an issue if you do not filter it into your decision process. Conveyors may need to be added off to the side, so it is crucial you think about this before you purchase anything.

Customization of the trommel may be required for your job, and if so it again is important you consider this before purchase. Ensure you know what material types will be used on this piece of equipment. You are best to also check local regulations in case the site is located whereby dust levels must be kept to a minimum. Meaning the machine would need to be customized to suit this.

Your site production rates must be thought through as this will impact what trommel you pick. If you want high production rates then ensure your chosen model specifies it can handle this.

Trommels are reliable, self-cleaning and precise. They have a short set-up time and can be ready for transport in under 10 minutes. Trommels are consistent, they produce accurate sizing of almost any material type at a very low operating cost.  


So browse our range of used trommels and find the right machine for your job. At Omnia Machinery we are industry experts in used construction equipment and a trusted machinery trader. We stock a wide variety of quality used construction equipment, not just trommels, to suit many different jobs such as cranesroad equipmentquarryearthmovingpilingdrilling and underground mining. We provide our customers with all information and pictures with their quotation before any sale is agreed upon. From inspections to shipping, we are here to support you through every step of the transaction and keep you informed throughout the whole process enabling you to purchase in confidence. Contact us today with your machinery requirements.