Optimization of Clinker Grinding Using The Taguchi Method

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how the application of the Taguchi method can be used to optimize clinker grinding. In order to observe the influencing degree of contol factors in a dry grinding system, three control factors namely ball size, fractional ball charge and speed of rotation, and each factor at three levels on product 80% passing size (d80) were studied and optimized. The experimental conditions were studied in the range of 13-45 mm for ball dimeter, 0.15-0.25 of fractional ball charge and 60-80% of critical speed for mill rotation. A three level orthogonal array design with nine experimental runs was selected. The Taguchi method includes regression of a model to the data, to predict an optimal combination of operating parameters. The predicted optimum point was determined and further tests confirmed the validity of the prediction. The ball size was found to have the largest effect on clinker grinding

Keywords

• grinding, comminution, process optimization

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