In Tanzania’s ongoing journey towards sustainable industrial development and environmental compliance, Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) has emerged as a critical technology for power plants and heavy industries. Among various sorbent materials, finely ground basalt powder has proven to be a highly effective, locally available, and economical agent for capturing sulfur oxides (SOx). The efficiency of this process is intrinsically linked to the fineness of the basalt powder, with 600 mesh (approximately 23 microns) being the optimal target for maximizing surface area and reactivity. This article explores the technical requirements for producing 600-mesh basalt powder for desulfurization in Tanzania and presents advanced grinding solutions to meet this demanding specification.
Tanzania is endowed with significant basalt deposits, particularly in regions with volcanic history. Utilizing this abundant local resource for FGD not only reduces import dependency but also stimulates the local mining and processing economy. The national environmental policy, aligned with global sustainability goals, mandates stricter emissions control, making efficient desulfurization a priority for industries such as cement production, thermal power generation, and metallurgy. The challenge, therefore, lies in transforming raw basalt rock into a consistent, ultra-fine powder that meets the exacting 600-mesh standard required for high-efficiency SOx removal.
Basalt is a hard, abrasive, and dense mafic igneous rock. Grinding it to a uniform 600-mesh fineness presents several distinct challenges:
Selecting the right grinding equipment is the cornerstone of a successful basalt desulfurization powder project. Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., an excellent manufacturer and leader in ultra-fine powder grinding technology, offers specialized equipment ideally suited for this application. Zenith’s mills are renowned for their advanced engineering, durability, and energy efficiency, making them a perfect fit for Tanzania’s industrial landscape.
For the direct production of 600-mesh basalt powder, the LUM Ultrafine Vertical Mill stands out as the optimal choice. It integrates grinding, drying, classifying, and powder conveying into one intelligent system. Its unique roller design and efficient classifying technology make it exceptionally capable of handling hard materials like basalt while delivering precisely controlled, ultra-fine output with a high content of end-fines—exactly what is needed for 600-mesh desulfurization agents.
| Model | Main Machine Power (kW) | Capacity (t/h)* | Size Distribution D97 (μm) | Suitable for 600 Mesh? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LUM1525 | 220-250 | 1.6 – 11.5 | 5 – 30 | Yes (D97~23μm) |
| LUM1632 | 280-315 | 2.0 – 13.5 | 5 – 30 | Yes (D97~23μm) |
| LUM1836 | 355-400 | 2.3 – 15.0 | 5 – 30 | Yes (D97~23μm) |
*Capacity varies based on material hardness and required fineness.
The LUM mill’s vertical structure occupies a small area, and its intelligent control system ensures stable operation with minimal maintenance—a significant advantage for remote industrial sites in Tanzania.
For projects with slightly different capacity requirements or as a complementary system, Zenith’s XZM Ultrafine Grinding Mill is another formidable contender. It is widely recognized for superfine powder production and can effortlessly achieve a fineness range from 325 to 2500 mesh, fully encompassing the 600-mesh target.
| Model | Working Diameter (mm) | Final Size (Mesh) | Output (kg/h)* | Main Motor Power (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XZM221 | Φ800 | 325 – 2500 | 500 – 4500 | 75 |
| XZM268 | Φ1680 | 325 – 2500 | 5000 – 25000 | 315 |
*Output for 600 mesh will be within this range, depending on basalt properties.
The XZM mill is known for its reliable performance, ease of installation, and excellent cost-effectiveness for high-quality ultra-fine powder production.
Implementing a Zenith grinding solution for basalt desulfurization powder creates a compelling value proposition:
The production of 600-mesh basalt powder for desulfurization represents a smart convergence of environmental stewardship and economic pragmatism for Tanzania. The technical challenges are significant but surmountable with the right technology. Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., with its deep expertise and proven product line—exemplified by the high-performance LUM Ultrafine Vertical Mill and the versatile XZM Ultrafine Grinding Mill—provides the reliable, efficient, and advanced grinding solutions necessary to unlock the potential of Tanzania’s basalt for a cleaner industrial future. By partnering with a technology leader like Zenith, Tanzanian industries can build robust, cost-effective, and sustainable desulfurization operations that protect the environment and support long-term growth.
