Minerals Processing Supplies

The minerals processing industry encompasses a wide range of high-temperature operations for extracting and refining minerals such as cement, lime, and other materials.

Key equipment used in this sector includes rotary kilns, preheater vessels, multiple hearth furnaces, dryers, and shaft kilns. In cement and lime production, rotary kilns heat and chemically transform limestone and other materials into clinker and quicklime. Preheater vessels are integrated into the process to improve energy efficiency by partially heating materials before they enter the kiln. Multiple hearth furnaces are commonly used for calcination and roasting processes, while dryers and shaft kilns remove moisture and further refine minerals. Each unit requires precise temperature control and durable furnace linings to handle the harsh conditions involved in minerals processing.

Refractories in the minerals processing industry must withstand high temperatures, mechanical stress, and the chemical reactions that occur during mineral transformation. In rotary kilns, high alumina bricks and dense firebrick are often used due to their excellent thermal stability and resistance to chemical corrosion from lime or clinker. 

Preheater vessels, where temperatures are somewhat lower, typically utilize insulating firebricks to maintain heat efficiency. Monolithic refractories such as castables and gunning mixes are frequently employed in high-wear areas of multiple hearth furnaces and shaft kilns. The ability of these refractories to resist thermal cycling and abrasion is crucial for maintaining the long-term integrity of the equipment. 

Larkin Refractory Solutions is a key partner in the minerals processing industry, supplying a wide range of refractories tailored to the specific demands of rotary kilns, preheater vessels, dryers, and other equipment. Larkin offers high-performance dense firebrick, high alumina bricks, insulating firebricks, and monolithic refractories designed to endure the extreme temperatures and abrasive environments of mineral processing. In addition to providing top-quality materials, Larkin supports customers with expertise from decades of experience, helping plants select the right refractories for each application and ensuring optimal installation.