Loesche is launching its new LM-Master for advanced vertical roller mill (VRM) control. This automation solution stabilises the VRM to allow operation with lower vibration. It also optimises mill performance by making accurate control actions several times per minute and offers continuous monitoring of the milling circuit for improved operational visibility. By Matthias Authenrieth, Thomas Hyttrek and Andreas Reintke, Loesche Automation GmbH, Germany, and Steven McGarel, Senior Consultant, USA.
VRMs have become the grinding circuit of choice in cement plants for raw meal, clinker and coal grinding due to their lower capital cost and energy consumption compared to ball mills. Loesche GmbH, Germany, has been a leading supplier of roller mills for over 100 years and in more recent times, has expanded by adding a subsidiary automation company for both hardware and software delivery and project management.
The latest addition to the automation software portfolio, which already includes mill simulator and SCADA solutions, is an advanced mill controller called LM-Master. This provides fully-automatic control and real-time optimisation of the mill process through precise control of mill behaviour according to defined objectives of throughput, energy efficiency and mill availability. The software platform is installed on a PC and interfaces with common PLC systems. With high controller availability the mill is continuously operated close to physical limits yet also with improved stability and reduced vibration levels, ensuring high mill efficiencies for low capital expenditure.
