Environment

Reducing energy consumption at Chanderia Cement Works

Published

5 years ago

January 4, 2020

admin

MP Birla Group has two cement plants at Chanderia (Rajasthan) – Birla Cement Works (BCW) and Chanderia Cement Works (CCW). Here is a case study on the various initiatives taken to reduce thermal and electrical energy consumption at for both the lines of CCW.

Cement clinker is manufactured primarily from limestone, clay, sand and iron oxide-bearing as raw materials. These materials are blended and finely comminuted to form the raw meal. The process of manufacture of cement consists essentially of crushing and grinding of the raw materials, mixing them intimately at certain proportions and burning them, usually in a rotary kiln at a temperature of approximately 1450 degree Celsius. The material sinters and partially fuses to promote the formation of the clinker phases. The principal phases in the cement clinker are tri-calcium silicate, di-calcium silicate, tri-calcium aluminate and calcium alumino ferrite. The clinker is then cooled and ground to fine powder with the addition of a few percent of gypsum. The resulting product is so called commercial Portland cement.

During the heating up and burning process, decomposition reactions, phases transformations and formation of new phases occur. These phenomena influence each other. Regarding, the energy consumption in the kiln plant, the important aspects are the enthalpies of the reactions, which may be endothermic or exothermic.

The share of energy consumed in a cement kiln attains 70 to 78 per cent of the overall energy consumed in the process of cement production as a whole. The residual (22 to 30 per cent) is the share of electrical energy. On the other hand, for the burning of the clinker kiln plant, thermal energy represents 92 to 96 per cent of the required energy and the electrical energy accounts for only 4 to 8 per cent. Therefore, potentials for reducing specific heat consumption in the kiln plant deserve priority (6 to 10).

Issues observed:
Huge false air across preheater area/preheater fan
Raw mix quality variation due to point stacking
False air across and hot dust falling from tertiary air duct(TAD) for CCW-1
Different fuel combination for both the kiln
False air from inlet/outlet seal of CCW-1 kiln

Action taken:
False air arrested and major leakages arrested during kilns shutdown
Formation of lime stone piles instead of point stacking (quality variation reduced)
Same fuel mix started for both the kilns
Dedicated SGA teams formed for regular arresting of false air
Change both inlet and outlet seal for CCW-1
Reduce kiln feed residue from 18 to 19 per cent to 16 to 17 per cent at +90
Reduced kiln feed residue from 4.67 to 2.5 per cent at +212

Results:
Thermal Energy consumption (Kcal/kg Clinker)
Kiln Line2017-182018-19
CCW Line -1740720
CCW Line -2736713

Increase throughput of cement mills
Clinker grinding technology has been continuously improving with numerous innovations in view of improving productivity and to reduce specific power consumption. In order to reduce the manufacturing costs for cement, it is very important to optimise the existing mill installations as far as the grinding process is concerned and also to use high quality spare parts and consumables like grinding media, rollers for roller presses, etc.

Ball mills are predominantly used machines for grinding in the cement industry. Although ball mills have been used for more than one hundred years, the design is still being improved in order to reduce the grinding costs.

Many types of grinding systems presently being used for clinker grinding in cement plants are:

Open and close circuit ball mills
Roller press in combi circuit/finished mode
Vertical roller mill (VRM)
Tube mill with pre-grinder/crusher
We at MP Birla Group at Chanderia having two cement ball mills with roller press in combi circuit havedone performance optimisation of the cement grinding circuits by doing process diagnostic studies.

We have taken various action and trial in steps and increased throughput by 25 to 30 per cent for both the mills. Output for both the mills was only 225/240(CM-1/2) TPH of 2017-18 in PPC, which has been increased to 300 to 310(CM-1/2) TPH as annual average in 2018-19 and reduced power consumption from 30.38 kWh/tcement of 2017-18 to 27.51 kWh/tcement in 2018-19.

Issues/action we were facing at CCW:
Grinding media pattern: Grinding is generally an inefficient process and there are many factors that can affect grinding performance. Among the ways of assessing mill performance are examining the load behavior, mill power and the rate of production of fines. Grinding performance, in terms of material breakage and power consumption, has been studied with a wide range of operating parameters such as mill speed, charge filling, ball size and lifter type etc.

We have taken a series of mills circuit sampling and crash stop samples to establish the grinding media pattern inside the mills.Grinding media charged in this mono chamber was ranging from 50 mm to 15 mm and corresponding specific surface area is 38.7 m2/tonne in NCCW cement mill-1 and 35.2 m2/tonne in NCCW cement mill-2.

This mill chamber is mainly for fine grinding as we already have roller press for coarse grinding. Therefore, using small balls is known to be more efficient as this increases the surface area of media and improves the grinding effect along with classifying liners.

Initial grinding media pattern was as per below table:

Replaced the larger grinding media of 50 and 40 mm in with lower sizes. Redistribute total weight of existing charge in lower size media to keep same total weight of media. Increased the specific surface area from 40 m2/MT and later on 42m2/MT.

Higher residue at +45 R:As we are having ball mill with roller press in combi circuit Sepol separator, which was having huge seal air gap which has been reduced to 15.0 mm from 35 to 40 mm by installing new seal plates and proper maintenance. Also checked separator vanes and corrected its uneven gap of vanes from 30 to 35 mm to 15 to 20 mm, which helps us in better separation of fines and coarse. A team has been formed by management for inspection and corrective action to improve separator performance consisting production, mechanical, and quality officers.

Separator guide vanes correction: Separator guide vanes has been checked and as observed many of the vanes found worn out which was affecting the PSD of product. Separator guide vanes has been replaced. Uneven gap has been corrected and checked sample results accordingly to get desired results.

Circuit sampling and crash stop:-Increased frequency of circuit sampling and weekly crash stop sampling done to establish the above pattern.

Process optimisation: Analysed complete circuit and done process optimization to obtain desired production by maintaining quality requirements.

Results
Output for both the mills was only 224/242 (CM-1/2) TPH of 2017-18 in PPC which has been increased to 290-300(CM-1/2) TPH as annual average in 2018-19 and reduced power consumption from 30.38 kWh/T Cement of 2017-18 to 27.51 kWh/T Cement in 2018-19.

Optimisation of raw gridning roller press
Lime stone grinding technology has been continuously improving with numerous innovations in view of improving productivity and to reduce specific power consumption. In order to reduce the manufacturing costs for cement, it is very important to optimize the existing mill installations as far as the grinding process is concerned and also to use high quality spare parts and consumables.

Many types of grinding systems presently being used for raw meal grinding in cement plants are:

Open and close circuit Ball mills
Roller press in combi circuit/finished mode
Vertical roller mill (VRM)
Tube mill with pre-grinder/crusher

We at MP Birla Group at Chanderia plant, in the raw grinding circuit having two KHD supplied roller. Presses RP-1 and RP-2 with single circuit of fan/separator which produce 360 TPH raw meal as annual average which consumes 16.5 kWh/T raw meal.

We have to run one standby Ball mill to makeup extra requirement of Raw meal which consumed 25.0 kWh/T raw meal which was a big loss.We have done many small in house modifications, logic changes and process optimization in step to improve its productivity and to reduce power consumption.

After all the steps/trials, mill is running > 410 TPH with 14.5 kWh/T Raw meal and major advantage for our plant that we have almost stopped Ball mill operation to make up extra raw meal requirements.

In the raw grinding circuit having two KHD supplied roller Presses RP-1 and RP-2 with single circuit of fan/separator which produce 360 TPH raw meal as annual average which consumes 16.5 kWh/T raw meal. We have to run one standby Ball mill to makeup extra requirement of Raw meal which consumed 25.0 kWh/T raw meal which was a big loss. By optimization and various small in house initiatives, we have increased throughput and reduced power consumption. Continuous running of Ball mill also stopped.

Action:
We have studied the circuit completely and following issues observed and taken actions:-

A.Feed regulating gate (351SG3, 351 SG4) in both RPs always in closed position (0%). Even during close position, no material stays in its pre bin so there is no choke feeding. Its position to be checked and necessary modifications to be done for chock feeding

During maintenance both feed gate checked and gap was uneven for both RPs which was varying from 120 to 180 gap. We have reduced it up to 120 mm by adjusting the plate, choke feeding started due to this.

B.Level sensor in overflow bin below SKS separator is always showing 1.98 MT(Full) due to this there is always having some risk of filling material in separator and fines eject from separator overflow bin air slide to both elevators. Level sensor checked , its position changed and now it is working perfectly

C.Huge material accumulation at SKS air entry spiral and SKS outlet duct

D.It was observed many times that When both RPs running in auto condition and RP-1 tripped due to any fault whole fines from SKS rushed towards RP-2 and bucket elevator tripped many times. Logic changed and now fines controlling is better.

D.Motorised actuator required for SKS reject air distribution gate for RP-1 for better fines control/ Correct size Actuator installed for better fines control.

Uneven Gap observed in separator guide vanes disturbing PSD of the product which has been corrected.

RP feed regulating gate: The gap between fixed roller & bottom plate of gate should be uniform throughout the width of roller. To maintain the same, feed regulating gate plate repaired.

Results
After all the steps/trials, mill is running > 410 TPH with 14.5 kWh/T Raw meal and major advantage for our plant that we have almost stopped Ball mill operation to make up extra raw meal requirements.

Mill Throughput Before optimisationAfter optimisation 360 TPH410 TPH

Mill Power Before optimisationAfter optimisation 16.5 kWh/T Raw Meal14.5 kWh/T Raw Meal

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Dinesh Kumar, D. Banerjee, D C Jagetiya, Narpat Anjana of MP Birla Group (Chanderia Cement Works, Chanderia), Rajasthan.This is only first part of the paper that was presented at NCCBM International seminar held in December 2019. The remaining part will be presented in the next issue.

Concrete

India donates 225t of cement for Myanmar earthquake relief

Published

5 days ago

June 17, 2025

admin

On 23 May 2025, the Indian Navy ship UMS Myitkyina arrived at Thilawa (MITT) port carrying 225 tonnes of cement provided by the Indian government to aid post-earthquake rebuilding efforts in Myanmar. As reported by the Global Light of Myanmar, a formal handover of 4500 50kg cement bags took place that afternoon. The Yangon Region authorities managed the loading of the cement onto trucks for distribution to the earthquake-affected zones.

Concrete

Reclamation of Used Oil for a Greener Future

Published

6 days ago

June 16, 2025

admin

In this insightful article, KB Mathur, Founder and Director, Global Technical Services, explores how reclaiming used lubricants through advanced filtration and on-site testing can drive cost savings, enhance productivity, and support a greener industrial future. Read on to discover how oil regeneration is revolutionising sustainability in cement and core industries.

The core principle of the circular economy is to redefine the life cycle of materials and products. Unlike traditional linear models where waste from industrial production is dumped/discarded into the environment causing immense harm to the environment;the circular model seeks to keep materials literally in continuous circulation. This is achievedthrough processes cycle of reduction, regeneration, validating (testing) and reuse. Product once
validated as fit, this model ensures that products and materials are reintroduced into the production system, minimising waste. The result? Cleaner and greener manufacturing that fosters a more sustainable planet for future generations.

The current landscape of lubricants
Modern lubricants, typically derived from refined hydrocarbons, made from highly refined petroleum base stocks from crude oil. These play a critical role in maintaining the performance of machinery by reducing friction, enabling smooth operation, preventing damage and wear. However, most of these lubricants; derived from finite petroleum resources pose an environmental challenge once used and disposed of. As industries become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, the paramount importance or focus is shifting towards reducing the carbon footprint and maximising the lifespan of lubricants; not just for environmental reasons but also to optimise operational costs.
During operations, lubricants often lose their efficacy and performance due to contamination and depletion of additives. When these oils reach their rejection limits (as they will now offer poor or bad lubrication) determined through laboratory testing, they are typically discarded contributing to environmental contamination and pollution.
But here lies an opportunity: Used lubricants can be regenerated and recharged, restoring them to their original performance level. This not only mitigates environmental pollution but also supports a circular economy by reducing waste and conserving resources.

Circular economy in lubricants
In the world of industrial machinery, lubricating oils while essential; are often misunderstood in terms of their life cycle. When oils are used in machinery, they don’t simply ‘DIE’. Instead, they become contaminated with moisture (water) and solid contaminants like dust, dirt, and wear debris. These contaminants degrade the oil’s effectiveness but do not render it completely unusable. Used lubricants can be regenerated via advanced filtration processes/systems and recharged with the use of performance enhancing additives hence restoring them. These oils are brought back to ‘As-New’ levels. This new fresher lubricating oil is formulated to carry out its specific job providing heightened lubrication and reliable performance of the assets with a view of improved machine condition. Hence, contributing to not just cost savings but leading to magnified productivity, and diminished environmental stress.

Save oil, save environment
At Global Technical Services (GTS), we specialise in the regeneration of hydraulic oils and gear oils used in plant operations. While we don’t recommend the regeneration of engine oils due to the complexity of contaminants and additives, our process ensures the continued utility of oils in other applications, offering both cost-saving and environmental benefits.

Regeneration process
Our regeneration plant employs state-of-the-art advanced contamination removal systems including fine and depth filters designed to remove dirt, wear particles, sludge, varnish, and water. Once contaminants are removed, the oil undergoes comprehensive testing to assess its physico-chemical properties and contamination levels. The test results indicate the status of the regenerated oil as compared to the fresh oil.
Depending upon the status the oil is further supplemented with high performance additives to bring it back to the desired specifications, under the guidance of an experienced lubrication technologist.
Contamination Removal ? Testing ? Additive Addition
(to be determined after testing in oil test laboratory)

The steps involved in this process are as follows:
1. Contamination removal: Using advanced filtration techniques to remove contaminants.
2. Testing: Assessing the oil’s properties to determine if it meets the required performance standards.
3. Additive addition: Based on testing results, performance-enhancing additives are added to restore the oil’s original characteristics.

On-site oil testing laboratories
The used oil from the machine passes through 5th generation fine filtration to be reclaimed as ‘New Oil’ and fit to use as per stringent industry standards.
To effectively implement circular economy principles in oil reclamation from used oil, establishing an on-site oil testing laboratory is crucial at any large plants or sites. Scientific testing methods ensure that regenerated oil meets the specifications required for optimal machine performance, making it suitable for reuse as ‘New Oil’ (within specified tolerances). Hence, it can be reused safely by reintroducing it in the machines.
The key parameters to be tested for regenerated hydraulic, gear and transmission oils (except Engine oils) include both physical and chemical characteristics of the lubricant:

Kinematic Viscosity
Flash Point
Total Acid Number
Moisture / Water Content
Oil Cleanliness
Elemental Analysis (Particulates, Additives and Contaminants)
Insoluble

The presence of an on-site laboratory is essential for making quick decisions; ensuring that test reports are available within 36 to 48 hours and this prevents potential mechanical issues/ failures from arising due to poor lubrication. This symbiotic and cyclic process helps not only reduce waste and conserve oil, but also contributes in achieving cost savings and playing a big role in green economy.

Conclusion
The future of industrial operations depends on sustainability, and reclaiming used lubricating oils plays a critical role in this transformation. Through 5th Generation Filtration processes, lubricants can be regenerated and restored to their original levels, contributing to both environmental preservation and economic efficiency.
What would happen if we didn’t recycle our lubricants? Let’s review the quadruple impacts as mentioned below:
1. Oil Conservation and Environmental Impact: Used lubricating oils after usage are normally burnt or sold to a vendor which can be misused leading to pollution. Regenerating oils rather than discarding prevents unnecessary waste and reduces the environmental footprint of the industry. It helps save invaluable resources, aligning with the principles of sustainability and the circular economy. All lubricating oils (except engine oils) can be regenerated and brought to the level of ‘As New Oils’.
2. Cost Reduction Impact: By extending the life of lubricants, industries can significantly cut down on operating costs associated with frequent oil changes, leading to considerable savings over time. Lubricating oils are expensive and saving of lubricants by the process of regeneration will overall be a game changer and highly economical to the core industries.
3. Timely Decisions Impact: Having an oil testing laboratory at site is of prime importance for getting test reports within 36 to 48 hours enabling quick decisions in critical matters that may
lead to complete shutdown of the invaluable asset/equipment.
4. Green Economy Impact: Oil Regeneration is a fundamental part of the green economy. Supporting industries in their efforts to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimise pollution is ‘The Need of Our Times’.

About the author:
KB Mathur, Founder & Director, Global Technical Services, is a seasoned mechanical engineer with 56 years of experience in India’s oil industry and industrial reliability. He pioneered ‘Total Lubrication Management’ and has been serving the mining and cement sectors since 1999.

Concrete

Charting the Green Path

Published

1 month ago

May 13, 2025

admin

The Indian cement industry has reached a critical juncture in its sustainability journey. In a landmark move, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has, for the first time, announced greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity reduction targets for 282 entities, including 186 cement plants, under the Carbon Credit Trading Scheme, 2023. These targets, to be enforced starting FY2025-26, are aligned with India’s overarching ambition of achieving net zero emissions by 2070.
Cement manufacturing is intrinsically carbon-intensive, contributing to around 7 per cent of global GHG emissions, or approximately 3.8 billion tonnes annually. In India, the sector is responsible for 6 per cent of total emissions, underscoring its critical role in national climate mitigation strategies. This regulatory push, though long overdue, marks a significant shift towards accountability and structured decarbonisation.
However, the path to a greener cement sector is fraught with challenges—economic viability, regulatory ambiguity, and technical limitations continue to hinder the widespread adoption of sustainable alternatives. A major gap lies in the lack of a clear, India-specific definition for ‘green cement’, which is essential to establish standards and drive industry-wide transformation.
Despite these hurdles, the industry holds immense potential to emerge as a climate champion. Studies estimate that through targeted decarbonisation strategies—ranging from clinker substitution and alternative fuels to carbon capture and innovative product development—the sector could reduce emissions by 400 to 500 million metric tonnes by 2030.
Collaborations between key stakeholders and industry-wide awareness initiatives (such as Earth Day) are already fostering momentum. The responsibility now lies with producers, regulators and technology providers to fast-track innovation and investment.
The time to act is now. A sustainable cement industry is not only possible—it is imperative.