Potash Processing

Experts in process design and material

processing for over 60 years.

Challenges in

Potash is widely used throughout the world as a fertilizer product.

Despite such widespread use, the

unique characteristics of potash

can present challenges during processing, be it in compaction

granulation, or pelletization.

Potash Challenge 1:

Clumping

Potash is hygroscopic, meaning that it

tends to absorb moisture from the

surrounding environment. For this

reason, potash is prone to clumping,

sticking, and caking.

Potash is hygroscopic, meaning that it

tends to absorb moisture from the

surrounding environment. For this

reason, potash is prone to clumping,

sticking, and caking.

Luckily, there are methods to combat

these issues.

In the drying stage, knocking systems

can be added to rotary dryers, in

order to dislodge any material sticking

to the interior of the drum.

A screw conveyor can also be utilized, in order to ‘fling’ material

into the dryer, breaking up any

potential clumps.

Potash granules can also be

coated with anti-caking additives, in order to discourage any caking.

Potash Challenge 2:

Corrosion

Potash is also a corrosive material. If

not adequately prepared for, potash

processing equipment can quickly be

destroyed through chemical action.

Potash is also a corrosive material. If

not adequately prepared for, potash

processing equipment can quickly be

destroyed through chemical action.

However, special accommodations

can be made to protect equipment.

Equipment areas that are

vulnerable to corrosion can be

coated in stainless steel or nickel

alloys to deter corrosion.

Potash Challenge 3:

Abrasion

In addition to being corrosive,

potash is also abrasive, a

characteristic which can have

devastating effects on equipment

if not adequately prepared for.

To protect against abrasion, areas of

high wear can be enforced with

heavy-duty construction.

In addition, build-up in potash

processing equipment must be

minimized in order to prevent abrasive

potash fines from clogging and

damaging equipment.

Conclusion:Despite widespread use, processing potash

can still present challenges in the form of

clumping, corrosion, and abrasion, whether

you’re working with a potash compaction

granulation process, or a pelletization

process.

v

FEECOhas been helping customers overcome

processing challenges for over 60 years.

Utilizing our state-of-the-art lab testing facility,

in combination with our highly engineered

equipment, we can design a system that’s

right for your potash facility.

Want to learn more?Download our

Potash Processing

E-book.

Potash Processing E-book

Processing Techniques

Challenges

Material Characteristics

Maintenance

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