Grinding aids are chemical additives used to improve the efficiency of the grinding process in cement and mineral processing. For limestone grinding, a grinding aid can help reduce energy consumption, increase mill throughput, and improve particle size distribution.
Common Grinding Aids for Limestone:
1. Organic Compounds:
– Glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethanolamine (TEA)) – Improve grindability by reducing agglomeration.
– Acetic acid, propionic acid – Act as dispersants.
– Amines (e.g., monoethanolamine, diethanolamine) – Enhance grinding efficiency.
2. Inorganic Compounds:
– Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH) – Can modify surface properties.
– Sodium silicate – Acts as a dispersant.
3. Polymer-Based Additives:
– Polycarboxylates, lignosulfonates – Prevent particle reagglomeration.
4. Commercial Grinding Aids:
– Products like BASF’s MasterCem, GCP’s TAVEROr SikaGrind are designed for cement and limestone grinding.
Key Benefits of Using Grinding Aids for Limestone:
– Reduced energy consumption (up to 10–30% savings).
– Finer particle size distribution (improved Blaine fineness).
– Less coating on grinding media & mill liners.
– Higher mill output & throughput.
Dosage & Application:
– Typical dosage ranges from 0.01% to 0.1% by weight of limestone.
– Added directly into the mill feed or as a liquid spray.
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