On the Optimisation of Expansion Processes of Industrial Minerals

Abstract

The paper discusses the characteristics of expansion processes of industrial minerals and presents the thermodynamic analysis at a novel furnace layout proposed for the expansion process, combined with heat recovery measures aiming at achieving an integrated process. Trajectories of expanded particles have been calculated in a conventional expansion furnace geometry and the presented results demonstrate the effects of particle size, density, initial velocity and angular velocity on the particle trajectories. The results have served as guidelines for the design of the novel furnace configuration. It is demonstrated that the use of the new type of furnace together with the high and low temepature heat recovery can contribute to considerable energy savings estimated at 45 % .