Lightweight aggregate production line, especially for the production of LECA (Lightweight Expanded Clay Aggregate), is a complex system that integrates multiple steps such as raw material handling, molding, firing and screening. The uniqueness of LECA is that it consists of small and light expanded fired clay particles, which contain thousands of small air-filled cavities inside. These characteristics give LECA excellent strength and excellent thermal insulation properties.
The following are the main links and processes of lightweight aggregate (LECA) production line:
1. Raw material preparation: Select high-quality clay as the basic raw material. The clay should have good plasticity, cohesiveness and appropriate chemical composition. The clay is crushed, screened and mixed to ensure the uniformity and consistency of the raw materials.
2. Molding: The prepared clay raw material is fed into the molding machine and formed into particles of a certain shape and size by pressing or extrusion. Parameters such as pressure, temperature and humidity need to be controlled during the molding process to ensure the quality and stability of the particles.
3. Firing: The formed particles are fed into the kiln for firing. During the firing process, the moisture and organic matter in the clay particles will be discharged, and the particles will expand to form small cavities filled with air. The firing temperature and time need to be precisely controlled to ensure that the physical and chemical properties of LECA meet the requirements.
4. Cooling and screening: After firing, the LECA is removed from the kiln and cooled. The cooling process needs to avoid sharp temperature changes to prevent the LECA from cracking or deforming. The cooled LECA needs to be screened to remove unqualified large particles, small particles and fragments to ensure the uniformity and quality of the product.
5. Quality inspection and packaging: The screened LECA is quality inspected, including indicators such as density, strength, water absorption and thermal insulation. Qualified products are packaged and labeled for transportation and sales.
The excellent properties of LECA make it widely used in many fields. Due to its light weight, high strength, thermal insulation and sound insulation, LECA is often used as a lightweight aggregate in building materials, used in products such as concrete, mortar and blocks. In addition, LECA can also be used in horticulture and agriculture as a substrate and soil conditioner for soilless cultivation.
During the construction and operation of lightweight aggregate production lines, it is necessary to pay attention to multiple aspects, including the selection and quality control of raw materials, the selection and maintenance of production equipment, and the optimization and management of production processes. At the same time, it is also necessary to pay attention to environmental protection and safety issues to ensure the sustainability of the production process and the health and safety of employees.
