The paint and coatings industry in Turkey is a dynamic and growing sector, serving both robust domestic demand and a significant export market. A key component in the formulation of high-quality paints, especially water-based and solvent-based architectural coatings, is the filler material. Among these, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) stands out for its excellent properties: it enhances opacity, improves rheology, increases volume at a low cost, and contributes to the durability and weather resistance of the final paint film. For many standard paint applications, a fineness of 80 mesh (approximately 180 microns) is a critical specification. Achieving a consistent, uniformly ground 80-mesh calcium carbonate powder is paramount for paint manufacturers to ensure batch-to-batch consistency, smooth application, and optimal performance.
This article delves into the technical requirements for grinding calcium carbonate to 80 mesh for paint filler applications in Turkey and explores the advanced grinding mill technologies that can deliver the required product quality efficiently and reliably.
An 80-mesh grind represents a specific particle size distribution that offers a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness in paint production. Particles of this size contribute effectively to the dry hiding power of the paint, reducing the need for more expensive titanium dioxide. They also act as extender pigments, improving the paint’s structural integrity and sanding properties in primers and undercoats. Crucially, a consistent 80-mesh product prevents issues such as grit, poor dispersion, and uneven sheen in the final coating. For Turkish paint producers, sourcing or producing a reliable supply of well-ground calcium carbonate is a direct factor in product competitiveness.
Grinding calcium carbonate to a precise 80-mesh specification involves more than just reducing particle size. The process must also consider:
Traditional grinding methods can be inefficient or inconsistent for modern industrial-scale paint production. Today’s manufacturers require precision-engineered grinding mills that offer control, reliability, and low operating costs. As a leading manufacturer in the field of industrial comminution, Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. specializes in providing such solutions. With extensive experience in ultra-fine powder grinding, Zenith’s equipment portfolio is ideally suited to meet the specific needs of the Turkish minerals processing sector, including calcium carbonate for paints.
For the production of 80-mesh calcium carbonate filler, two of Zenith’s grinding mills are particularly well-suited, offering a blend of precision, capacity, and economic operation.
The Zenith MTM Medium-Speed Grinding Mill is an excellent choice for producing powders in the 80-400 mesh range. It represents a significant technological advancement over traditional Raymond mills. Its curved shovel blade design increases feeding capacity and efficiency, while the multi-head classifier system allows for precise control over the final particle size—essential for hitting the exact 80-mesh target. Its compact design and higher capacity per unit of floor space make it a cost-effective solution for paint filler producers.
| Model | Ring Roll Number (pcs) | Max. Feed Size (mm) | Output (t/h) | Main Unit Motor Power (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTM100 | 4 | <25 | 3-8 | 37 |
| MTM130 | 5 | <30 | 6-11 | 75 |
| MTM160 | 6 | <35 | 9-22 | 132 |
For larger-scale production with a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and integrated processing, the Zenith LM Vertical Grinding Mill is highly recommended. This mill integrates crushing, grinding, powder selection, drying, and conveying into one unit. Its vertical structure requires a smaller footprint, and its grinding roller directly grinds the material on the disc, leading to lower energy consumption compared to ball mills. The built-in high-efficiency classifier ensures sharp particle size cuts, making it straightforward to achieve and maintain the 80-mesh product specification. This is an ideal solution for a dedicated calcium carbonate processing line supplying multiple paint plants.
| Model | Plate Diameter (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Output Fineness (μm) | Main Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LM130K | 1300 | 10-28 | 170-40 (~80-400 mesh) | 200 |
| LM190K | 1900 | 23-68 | 170-40 (~80-400 mesh) | 500 |
The choice of grinding technology is a strategic decision for any calcium carbonate processor or integrated paint manufacturer in Turkey. By selecting equipment engineered for precision, efficiency, and durability, producers can secure a consistent supply of high-quality 80-mesh filler, a fundamental ingredient for competitive paint formulations.
Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., with its proven track record and comprehensive range of grinding mills like the MTM and LM series, is positioned as a valuable partner for the Turkish industry. Zenith’s expertise ensures that producers can optimize their grinding circuits for the specific demands of paint-grade calcium carbonate, enhancing product quality and operational profitability.
