Potash

Experts in process design and material processing for over 60 years.

Compaction Granulation

Compaction granulation is the primary method used to turn potash fines into a usable fertilizer product.

This method relies on the principle that under extreme pressure, some materials will adhere to themselves without the use of a binder.

Potash fines are fed between two counter rotating rolls. The rolls use extreme pressure to press the potash fines into a form.

Potash fines are fed between two counter rotating rolls. The rolls use extreme pressure to press the potash fines into a form.

This form is then broken up into the desired granule size.

Simplified Compaction Diagram1. Raw feed2. Mill3. Surge Hopper4. Humidificator Mixer5. Protecting Screen6. Compactor7. Flake Breaker8. Granulators9. Screen10. Polishing Drum11. Screen12. Screw for Recycles

Two key factors influence the success of compaction granulation:

The Feeding Mechanism

An even, steady pressure across the face of the rolls is necessary.

An even, steady pressure across the face of the rolls is necessary.

Uneven pressure is often the result of an inadequate feeding system.

Particle SizeDistribution

Variance in particle size distribution for the material feedstock will produce the best results. This is because smaller particles will fill in the spaces between larger ones.

In addition, a particle size distribution that is either too fine or too coarse, can cause processing problems or produce poor end product results.

Potash granules are sometimes conditioned in a coarse conditioning drum or paddle mixer.

Potash granules are sometimes conditioned in a coarse conditioning drum or paddle mixer.

This allows any loose edges to break away, a process referred to as “polishing” the granules.

This aids in reducing the potential for attrition, which is the breakdown of granule edges into fines.

This step also allows the opportunity to add anti-caking or anti-dusting additives, if desired.

has been working with potash for over 60 years, providing testing, process design and development, and manufacturing of potash processing equipment.

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