How Does A Rotary Kiln Work?

A rotary kiln works by using extremely high temperatures combined with controlled retention times to induce chemical reactions or phase changes in materials. As the material moves through the rotating, inclined cylinder, it undergoes these changes at specific temperatures necessary to achieve desired qualities or to oxidize components, leaving behind valuable material. Rotary kilns can be direct-fired, where the material contacts the process gas directly, or indirect-fired (calciners), where the drum’s external heating causes the reaction. This design ensures thorough mixing and efficient heat transfer, resulting in high-quality thermal processing.