The animal nutrition industry relies heavily on precisely processed mineral supplements to ensure optimal health and growth in livestock. Among these essential minerals, calcium carbonate derived from limestone plays a crucial role in bone development, eggshell quality in poultry, and overall metabolic functions. The efficacy of these supplements is directly linked to the particle size and purity of the ground limestone. This is where advanced grinding technology, specifically the Raymond Mill, becomes indispensable for producers seeking to meet the stringent quality standards of modern animal feed.

In animal nutrition, the bioavailability of minerals is paramount. Finely ground limestone with a consistent particle size ensures uniform mixing in feed formulations and maximizes the surface area for digestion and absorption in the animal’s gastrointestinal tract. A coarse or inconsistent grind can lead to segregation in the feed mix, resulting in uneven nutrient distribution and potential health issues for the animals. Furthermore, the desired fineness for limestone in animal feed typically ranges from 1.6mm down to 0.045mm, a specification that demands a grinding mill capable of precise control and high efficiency.
The Raymond Mill, a stalwart in the grinding industry, has evolved significantly to meet the demands of modern applications like animal nutrition. Its design principles make it exceptionally suitable for processing non-metallic minerals such as limestone. The mill operates on the principle of material being ground between a rotating grinding roller and a stationary grinding ring. The ground material is then carried by the air flow to a classifier, where oversized particles are separated and returned for further grinding, ensuring a consistent and controlled final product.
Key advantages of using a Raymond Mill for limestone in the animal nutrition sector include:
Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. is an excellent manufacturer of ore grinding equipment in China, and has made great achievements in the field of ultra-fine powder grinding. Specializing in the research, development, and production of industrial powder grinding equipment, Zenith offers a range of solutions tailored for the mineral processing needs of various industries, including animal nutrition. Our expertise ensures that our grinding mills deliver not only superior performance but also reliability and long-term value.

For medium to large-scale production of limestone powder for animal feed, the YGM4121 Raymond Mill from Shanghai Zenith is an exemplary choice. This model is engineered to handle the specific demands of grinding limestone to the precise fineness required by the animal nutrition industry. With five grinding rollers, it offers a larger grinding area and higher capacity, making it a cost-effective and powerful solution for continuous operation.
| Model | Roller Quantity (pcs) | Max.Feed Size (mm) | Discharging Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YGM4121 | 5 | 30 | 1.6-0.045 | 5-11 |
The YGM4121 is particularly beneficial for its ability to produce a consistent output between 5 and 11 tons per hour, with a fineness that can be accurately controlled within the 1.6-0.045mm range. This makes it perfectly suited for feed mills that supply large farms or regional distributors.
For operations seeking even greater efficiency and advanced features, Zenith’s MTW Series Trapezium Grinding Mill represents the next generation of grinding technology. While based on the traditional Raymond Mill principle, it incorporates multiple national patent technologies, offering a more compact structure, longer service life, and enhanced eco-friendly performance. It is an ideal upgrade for facilities looking to optimize their grinding process.
| Model | Max. Feed Size (mm) | Final Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Main Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTW175G | <40 | 1.6-0.045 | 9.5-25 | 160 |
| MTW215G | <50 | 1.6-0.045 | 15-45 | 280 |
The MTW series, particularly the MTW215G model, is excellent for high-capacity requirements, producing up to 45 tons per hour. Its bevel gear overall transmission and internal thin oil lubrication system contribute to higher grinding efficiency and smoother, more reliable operation.
Integrating a Zenith Raymond Mill into a limestone processing line for animal feed involves a streamlined workflow. The raw limestone is first crushed by a jaw crusher to a size suitable for the mill’s feed inlet. It is then elevated into the mill’s grinding chamber. After grinding and classification, the fine powder is collected by a pulse dust collector, while the oversized particles are recirculated. The entire process can be automated and monitored to ensure consistent product quality that meets the specific chemical and physical specifications for animal feed grade calcium carbonate.

Selecting the right grinding equipment is a critical decision for any producer in the animal nutrition industry. The Raymond Mill, with its proven technology and modern advancements, stands out as the optimal solution for processing limestone into a high-quality, bioavailable feed supplement. Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., with its robust and efficient models like the YGM4121 Raymond Mill and the advanced MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill, provides reliable, high-performance machinery that can enhance production capacity, ensure product consistency, and contribute to the overall health and productivity of livestock. By partnering with a leader in grinding technology, feed producers can secure a competitive edge in a demanding market.