What is the manufacturing process of gypsum powder?

Gypsum Powder Manufacturing Process

1. Raw Material Collection

Gypsum rock (calcium sulfate dihydrate) is mined from quarries. This raw material is essential for the subsequent processing stages.

2. Crushing and Pre-Processing

The gypsum rock is crushed into smaller pieces, typically less than 20 mm, using jaw or impact crushers. This initial size reduction facilitates more efficient grinding.

3. Calcination

The crushed gypsum is then heated in a kiln at temperatures between 150-180°C to remove moisture and convert it into calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO₄·½H₂O), commonly known as plaster of Paris.

4. Cooling and Grinding

After calcination, the gypsum is cooled and fed into the GKH micro powder grinding mill. Here, the grinding process takes place in a specially designed chamber.

Feeding Mechanism: The cooled material is continuously fed into the grinding chamber via a screw conveyor or belt feeder, ensuring a consistent flow rate.

Grinding Chamber: Inside the mill, high-speed rotating rollers apply pressure and shear forces to the material, reducing particle size through impact and attrition.

Classifying: An integrated classifier separates fine particles from coarse ones, allowing only those below the desired size (e.g., D50=5 microns) to exit the system.

Recirculation: Coarser particles are returned to the grinding chamber for further processing, ensuring a uniform particle size in the final product.

Cooling System: The grinding process generates heat, which is managed through a cooling system, preventing overheating and preserving material quality.

Dust Collection: Dust control mechanisms capture fine particles, minimizing emissions and maintaining a clean working environment.

Discharge: The finely ground gypsum powder is collected and discharged for packaging or further processing.

5. Packaging and Applications

The final gypsum powder is packaged and can be used in various applications, including drywall production, plaster, cement, and agricultural soil amendments. Manufacturers may also incorporate recycled gypsum and additives to enhance product performance.