During last few weeks we start to see the lumps in cement. We're trying to find couses of it, however, we have not been successful yet. Do you have any suggestions on that issue. Please advise.
Thank you.
Michael Clark
It is likely that the problem is related to continued gypsum dehydration in the cement storage silo. Have cement mill temperatures changed? Or the source of gypsum changed?
Raj Sahu
The following possible measures will reduce lump formation in cement silo:
1.Since moisture in cement is mainly through dehydration of gypsum during grinding, it may be attempted to reduce moisture concentration in cement by increasing cement grinding temperature in the mill (max. 115 deg Cent.) so that extensive dehydration takes place in mill itself and moisture goes out through the mill vent fan.
2.Emphasis must be given to reduce access to moisture during cement storage. A partial replacement of gypsum with gypsum anhydrite can be possible way to reduce water vapour in cement storage silo.
3.The concentration of C3A mineral phase content increases sensitivity of cement towards moisture. Therefore, control of C3A reduces tendency of lump formation.
4.Short term storage of cement in silo and ensure smooth functioning of all silo extraction gate by regular monitoring will reduce tendency of lump formation.
5.Silo vent bag filter fan may be operated on continuous basis.
KEY
Thank you for your reply.
Niether have changed in Finish mill operation or recipe.