What issue occurs in a rock crusher when two rocks interlock and bridge the jaws?

Bridging occurs in a rock crusher when two rocks interlock and create a blockage between the jaws of the crusher. This situation prevents the intended crushing action from taking place, as the material cannot pass through to the crushing zone due to the obstruction created by the rocks locked together. Bridging can lead to inefficiencies in the operation, as it stops the flow of material and may require manual intervention to clear the blockage.

In contrast, clogging typically refers to a condition where foreign materials or excessive fines accumulate and inhibit the normal flow of material through the crushing system, while stalling relates to a scenario where the machine stops functioning due to mechanical overload or lack of power. Overheating refers to the excessive heat buildup in the machinery, often as a result of prolonged operation or lack of lubrication, which can affect performance but is not specifically linked to the interaction of two rocks blocking the jaws. Thus, bridging is the most precise term for this particular issue within a rock crusher context.