The Australian cement manufacturing industry relies heavily on efficient material handling for its complex processes, from raw material extraction to the final product. This article explores the crucial role of material conveying equipment in enhancing productivity, safety, and sustainability within Australian cement plants and highlights RUD Australia's tailored solutions.

Cement extraction is a complex process that requires efficient management of various raw materials. Given the logistics of manufacturing and the sheer volume and weight involved, material handling equipment is an essential component in any cement plant.

Since material handling equipment is used throughout the cement process, from extracting limestone to moving bulk clinker, proper use can enhance productivity and simplify operations.

As an innovative technological trendsetter, RUD provides a range of material handling solutions and equipment that can withstand the challenging conditions of the cement industry.

Significance of Material Handling Equipment in Cement Production:

Material conveying requires the safe and efficient transportation of raw materials (mainly limestone, gypsum, and fly ash) and bulk products (clinker). The right equipment can ensure safety, decrease downtime and ensure compliance with environmental and industrial standards.

Types of Material Handling Equipment for Cement Production

Bucket Elevators

Bucket Elevators transport bulk materials vertically, such as powdered lime scale or clinker. They also transfer, lift, convey, and store materials between different levels using less space and a large volume. Based on the application, a suitable (Chain or Belt) bucket elevator can be selected.

Benefits of Bucket Elevators:

• They can move bulk material vertically
• They keep the materials moving between the phases of production
• They are suitable for both powdery and fine granular material

Drag Chain Conveyors

Drag Chain Conveyors can transport a wide range of bulk materials. Their operation is based on the continuous movement of a chain placed in a rectangular section steel trough with a dust cover, coupled to a drive gear and sprockets/wheels. Although the material is usually dragged along the bottom of the trough by the lower section of the chain, it is also possible to convey material in the upper part. The drag chain conveyors from RUD are high quality, with sturdy construction, simple to set up for easy maintenance and reliable.

Benefits of Drag Chain Conveyors:

• Built to withstand heavy loads and rigorous operating conditions
• Can be tailored to specific application requirements, ensuring optimal performance
• Optimised power consumption to reduce operational costs
• Come with a closed dust dust-free operation which reduces pollution

Surface Feeders

Surface Feeders or Chain-Driven Belt Feeders are rubber belted pan feeders specially designed to convey materials discharged by trucks. These conveyors can receive a wide range of bulk materials, minimise spillage, and are suitable for quarries and terminals. They are available as a fixed or mobile option with dust covers.

Benefits of Surface Feeders:

• Can receive a rapid flow of material from tippers or trucks and convey them to a hauling and processing plant with a controlled and adjustable flow rate
• Since they only require a small ramp for the trucks, they are a lower investment compared to traditional feeders

Apron Feeders

Apron feeders consist of a chain equipped with interconnected pans moving at a controlled speed. They transport bulk materials like limestone, clay, and gypsum from storage bins or hoppers to crushers or other processes. Apron feeders are ideal for transporting large-sized, abrasive, and sticky materials, ensuring a steady and regulated flow of material throughout the production line.

Benefits of Apron Feeders:

• Apron feeders are built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy loads, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal downtime
• They can handle a wide range of materials, including different particle sizes and moisture content
• Apron feeders provide precise control over the material flow rate, preventing bottlenecks and optimising production processes

Tips to Make Material Handling More Efficient in Cement Plants:

If your business involves large material handling equipment fitted with sensors, control systems, and automation technology, it may be possible to automate and operate the system ‘hands-off’, reducing labour costs while keeping production efficient. Modern bulk material handling equipment is designed to be energy-efficient, using electricity instead of fossil fuels.

Conclusion:

Effective material handling is crucial for the efficiency and success of cement manufacturing plants. RUD Australia can implement ideal bulk material handling solutions that facilitate production workflows, reduce operational costs, and improve safety levels.

As the cement manufacturing industry continues to grow and adapt in response to industry demands, there is a need to upgrade material handling equipment and improve the use of industrial material handling tools. Effective processing procedures are critical for efficient production which meets the standards required for safety and quality. From robust bucket elevators to reliable conveyor belt scrapers, RUD Australia offers innovative solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability.

Article copyright to RUD: This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.