Minerals & Inorganics

Minerals & Inorganics

 

Mineral pigments and fillers like TiO2, CaCO3, talc, clay, barites or zeolites are processed in large mills with long production runs. A primary challenge is to minimize the energy spent to achieve the target grind. Determining the correct media is critical to optimize the grind and to maintain operational efficiency. Bead density and size are the main selection criteria; choosing the correct combination has a significant impact on overall process economies. Saint-Gobain ZirPro has been supplying high-quality ceramic media to the mineral pigments and fillers industries for more than 40 years, offering the market-leading range of beads. ER120Rimax®, Rimax®HDZirmil® Ce and Zirmil® Y are designed to meet the exacting demands of each specific product type and process. ZirPro also offers a unique level of after-sales and technical support.

 

Zirpro Beads to improve cost efficiency

For many minerals, a mid-density media (4.0 g/cc) is optimal to provide the correct combination of stress intensity and impact probability. Both ER120 and Rimax are considered standards because their uniform structure ensures a controlled wear profile. This limits the generation of rough surfaces, reducing the risk of contamination from media and mill wear, as well as minimizing energy loss in bead-to-bead interactions.

Rimax HD has been developed recently, offering a higher density (4.6 g/cc) and wear resistance for a better milling performance than Rimax, remaining compatible with conventional milling equipment.

Zirmil® Ce and Zirmil® Y are the most advanced solutions in processing minerals . Their higher density (6.0 g/cc) provides a more efficient grind. Operating costs are reduced as both media have significantly extended lifetimes.

ER beads