An Optimization of Calcite Grinding Using the Taguchi Method with Multiple Performance Characteristics

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to demostrate how the application of Taguchi method can be used to develop an effective optimization process for calcite grinding. In order to observe the influencing degree of contol factors in dry calcite grinding, three control factors namely mill speed, ball size and grinding time on lowest product 80% passing size (d80) were studied and optimized. L18 orthogonal array, by which the effect of one factor has six levels and others have three levels, could be tested, was chosen. The optimal process control factors which minimize the d80 size of product were the mill speed (%Critical) at %70, ball size at 20 mm and the grinding time at 30 min with the prediction of 49 µm d80 size.The mill speed has stronger effect on the calcite grinding process followed by the grinding time and the ball size. In order to gain a better understanding of the effects of control factors on d80 size, a total of 3 response surface plots for the measured response were formed. The study indicated that the Taguchi method was an efficient way of determining the optimal grinding parameters for calcite grinding

Keywords

• Taguchi method, calcite grinding, optimization

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