Zircon sand
Zircon, also known as zircon silicate (ZrSiO4), is found in ancient mineral sand deposits and is typically brown in color.
Zircon is one of the two core product streams from āmineral sandsā, the other being titanium minerals. During mining, these minerals are separated and removed from their ore deposits.
Zircon sand is mainly used in the ceramics, specialty casting and various refractory applications. Its resistance to high temperature and abrasion makes it extremely valuable in manufacturing processes.
The main use of zircon sand is its conversion to zircon flour, a highly valued product which is used to strengthen concrete and glass properties and refractory bricks. It helps produce pigments and glazes for tiles and sanitary ware by increasing the opacity and brightness of the glaze.
Zircon Flour is manufactured by milling zircon sand, usually in ball mills, either in the dry state or in a slurry. For high quality, ultra-fine, zircon flour powder production, Hosokawa Micron Powder Systems offers the Alpine Super-Orion Ball Mill in circuit with an Air Classifier. For high brightness applications, the ball mill will typically be constructed withĀ aluminum oxide media and lining.
The most common type of Hosokawa Air Classifier used for Zircon Flour is the Alpine Stratoplex (ASP) which is used for a cut point (top size) of 20 to 200 microns. For super-fine applications, the Alpine Turboplex (ATP) Air Classifier is used, with a cut point (top size) of 5 to 50 microns, with single and multi-wheel options. Both classifiers are made with aluminum oxide classifier wheels, and with interior Aluminum Oxide tiling for both fine grinding and durability.
Hosokawa Micron Powder Systems has the experience and expertise to set up quality systems for these applications. Contact us today to learn more.