As basalt is a rock characterized by high hardness and high abrasiveness, the selection of primary crushing equipment is of paramount importance. For small-scale production lines or experimental projects with a processing capacity ranging from 1 to 20 tons per hour (tph), selecting the appropriate crusher model requires balancing crushing efficiency with economic viability and ease of maintenance.

In the primary crushing stage, the jaw crusher is the preferred choice for processing basalt. Its powerful compressive force enables it to effectively handle the high compressive strength inherent in basalt. For capacity requirements of 1–20 tph, small-scale jaw crushers—typically featuring feed opening dimensions between 250 mm × 400 mm and 400 mm × 600 mm—are generally the most suitable option. These machines feature a relatively simple structure and stable operation, allowing them to easily reduce large blocks of basalt to medium-sized particles, thereby providing qualified raw materials for subsequent processing stages.

When selecting equipment, in addition to focusing on processing capacity, it is essential to consider other parameters such as maximum feed size, discharge opening adjustment range, and motor power to ensure compatibility with the overall production line. Furthermore, given the abrasive nature of basalt, particular attention should be paid to the material composition and durability of wear parts—such as the jaw plates—in order to minimize long-term operating costs. Only through a comprehensive evaluation can one successfully select an efficient and reliable small-scale primary basalt crusher.