Choosing The Right Rotary Kiln Design for Your Needs

As with most types of industrial equipment, there isn’t a single design or style of kiln. Rotary kiln manufacturers have several standardized builds, with a few key differences. Each type of kiln is going to be better suited for different materials or heat profiles, so choosing the right configuration is key.

Kiln Technology Company Co has a long history of experience providing rotary kiln services, and we’re here to help you select the best possible kiln for your needs. So, let’s take a look at some of the major differences between different kiln configurations.

Step 1- Kiln Shapes

The most common kiln shape is a simple cylinder with roughly equal circumference throughout its length. This is the best option for the most common types of kiln usage, such as processing cement.

However, they can also be designed with bulges in certain spots, to encourage materials to stay in that zone for longer. For example, they may have an enlarged zone near the top for longer burning, for materials with a lot of liquid that must be evaporated. Or they may have a larger area near the bottom for longer calcination times. In rare cases, the kiln may even be enlarged at both ends, for materials that need extra heat throughout.

These alternative configurations should only be used if truly necessary since they will disrupt the flow of materials through the kiln and potentially lead to uneven output levels. That’s why most kilns stick with a straight regular cylinder.

Step 2- Length-Diameter Ratios

Another critical question is the length and width of the kiln, which is described as a ratio. This is typically either 12:1 or 20:1, depending on how long materials need to stay within the kiln as it rotates. However, this will also have a significant impact on how much energy is needed to heat the kiln, as well as the heat profile within.

This is another choice that is largely dictated by the materials being processed. Custom kiln sizes are also an option, although it’s rare to need this.

Step 3-Number of tires

The kiln is supported by at least two large steel “tires” which run around the circumference of the kiln and make direct contact with the rollers below. The longer the kiln, the more tires it will need to properly support its weight – up to four, for massive kilns. It’s important to have the right number of tires since too few will quickly cause sagging and deformation of the kiln shell, leading to rapid breakdowns.

There are a lot of choices to make, and it’s best to have a partner on your side who’s experienced in working with rotary kiln manufacturers. Kiln Technology Company Co has spent years assisting customers with their kilns across the country. We can handle new kiln sales and installations, as well as repairs, maintenance, and other kiln services on existing units. We can even decommission old kilns, if necessary.

Contact us to discuss your needs or receive a price quote.