ROTARY KILN Meaning and
Definition
-
A rotary kiln is a large cylindrical furnace, commonly used in industrial applications, that utilizes heat to carry out various processes such as calcination, thermal decomposition, reduction, and sintering. It consists of a long, rotating cylindrical shell, inclined slightly from the horizontal, mounted on a supporting system.
The inside of the kiln is lined with refractory materials to withstand high temperatures and prevent heat loss. The kiln is typically heated by burning fuel, such as coal, oil, or natural gas, at one end and introducing the material to be processed at the other end. The rotation of the kiln ensures uniform heat distribution and efficient processing.
The materials fed into the kiln move gradually through it due to the rotation and the inclination. As they move along the length of the kiln, they are subjected to a series of thermal and chemical reactions. These reactions may result in the removal of moisture, the decomposition of carbonates, the reduction of metallic oxides, or the sintering of powders.
Rotary kilns are commonly used in industries such as cement production, lime production, alumina production, and mining. They offer advantages such as high production capacity, operational flexibility, energy efficiency, and precise control over the process parameters. The type of rotary kiln utilized depends on the specific process requirements and the characteristics of the materials being processed.
In summary, a rotary kiln is a versatile and robust furnace that employs heat and rotational motion to carry out various industrial processes involving thermal and chemical transformations of materials.
Etymology of ROTARY KILN
The word "rotary" derives from the Latin word "rota" which means wheel or rotation. "Kiln" originates from the Middle English word "kilne" or "kiln" which refers to a furnace or oven used for hardening, drying, or burning materials.
The term "rotary kiln" combines these two words to describe a cylindrical, rotary device used for a variety of thermal processes including calcination, sintering, and pyrolysis. The rotating action of the kiln allows for even heating and processing of materials within the cylindrical chamber. Thus, the etymology of "rotary kiln" reflects its fundamental characteristics and purpose.
