Perlite, a naturally occurring volcanic glass, undergoes a remarkable transformation when heated rapidly to temperatures around 850–900 °C. The trapped water within the raw perlite ore vaporizes, causing the material to expand to up to 20 times its original volume. This process yields a lightweight, porous, and white material known as expanded perlite. It is this expanded form that possesses exceptional thermal insulation properties, making it an indispensable material in cryogenic applications, such as the storage and transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquid nitrogen, and other super-cooled gases.
The efficacy of perlite as a cryogenic insulator is directly linked to its particle size distribution and fineness. A consistent and ultra-fine powder ensures a homogeneous insulation matrix with minimal interstitial spaces, drastically reducing heat transfer via convection and conduction. Therefore, the grinding process is not merely a step in production; it is a critical determinant of the final product’s performance. This is where the selection of an appropriate grinding mill becomes paramount.
Among the various grinding technologies available, the Raymond Mill has proven to be a particularly effective and efficient solution for processing expanded perlite. The working principle of a Raymond Mill involves grinding rollers pressing against a grinding ring. The raw material is fed into the center of the grinding chamber and is thrown outward by the centrifugal force of the rotating grinding rollers. The material is then ground between the rollers and the ring, with the final fineness being controlled by an integrated air classifier.
For perlite grinding, this technology offers several distinct advantages:
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. We are specialized in the research, development, and production of industrial powder grinding equipment and other related devices. With decades of experience, Zenith understands the precise requirements of processing lightweight, abrasive materials like perlite and has engineered its mills to meet these challenges head-on.
Our comprehensive product portfolio includes the MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill, Ball Mill, MTM Medium-Speed Grinding Mill, Raymond Mill, LM Vertical Grinding Mill, LUM Ultrafine Vertical Mill, XZM Ultrafine Grinding Mill, and Hammer Mill. For the specific application of grinding expanded perlite to a fine, consistent powder for cryogenic insulation, our Raymond Mill and MTM Medium-Speed Grinding Mill are highly recommended.
For medium to large-scale perlite grinding operations targeting high-quality insulation powder, the Zenith YGM4121 Raymond Mill is an ideal choice. Its design incorporates five grinding rollers, providing a larger grinding area and higher capacity. The advanced pneumatic system ensures efficient material circulation and classification, resulting in a product with a narrow and consistent particle size distribution perfect for insulation applications.
| Model | Roller Quantity (pcs) | Max.Feed Size (mm) | Discharging Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YGM4121 | 5 | 30 | 1.6-0.045 | 5-11 |
For operations seeking a modernized version of the traditional Raymond Mill with higher efficiency and a more streamlined structure, the Zenith MTM130 Medium-Speed Grinding Mill serves as a perfect upgrade. It adopts world-leading powder processing technology and is designed for enhanced performance and energy savings.
| Model | Ring roll number (pcs) | Max. feed size (mm) | Output (t/h) | Main unit motor power (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTM130 | 5 | 30 | 6-11 | 75 |
The demand for efficient and safe cryogenic insulation is growing globally, driven by the energy and industrial gas sectors. The quality of expanded perlite, the material of choice for this application, hinges on a precise and efficient grinding process. Shanghai Zenith Machinery’s Raymond Mills, particularly models like the YGM4121 and the MTM130, are engineered to deliver the consistent fineness, high capacity, and operational reliability required to produce top-tier perlite insulation powder.
By investing in the right grinding technology from a trusted manufacturer, producers can ensure their perlite products meet the stringent standards of the cryogenic industry, leading to enhanced safety, improved energy conservation, and greater economic returns.
