In recent years, the demand for high-quality animal feed additives has grown rapidly in South Africa. One important additive that has gained attention is carbon black, known for its beneficial properties in improving the absorption of nutrients and enhancing the feed’s physical structure. For processing carbon black to a specific fineness—such as 80 mesh—a highly efficient grinding solution is required. This is where Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. enters the picture, offering advanced precision grinding systems designed specifically for industrial powder processing needs.
Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of ore and industrial powder grinding equipment in China, recognized worldwide for its innovations in ultra-fine powder grinding technologies. Their portfolio includes models such as the MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill, LM Vertical Grinding Mill, and XZM Ultrafine Grinding Mill. These systems have been applied successfully across industries including mining, construction, and animal feed additives in multiple countries, including South Africa.

Carbon black serves multiple roles in modern feed additive formulations. When processed to 80 mesh, it acts as an efficient carrier and absorbent, improving nutrient utilization in livestock. Furthermore, carbon black helps regulate feed density, enhances pellet durability, and improves animal digestion efficiency. However, to achieve consistent performance, the grinding process must ensure uniform particle size distribution and low contamination levels—both achievable through advanced grinding technology.
In South Africa’s animal feed industry, producers are emphasizing sustainability and cost-efficiency. Grinding carbon black efficiently not only reduces energy consumption but also ensures better product consistency, contributing to higher productivity and formula optimization. Therefore, selecting a robust and precise grinding mill is essential.
Grinding carbon black to 80 mesh (approximately 180 microns) requires a balance between capacity, precision, and minimal over-grinding. This level of fineness facilitates homogeneous blending in feed formulations. The key technical considerations for selecting the right mill include:

Based on extensive research and experience in the grinding industry, Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. recommends the following grinding mill solutions for carbon black processing in South Africa:
The MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill is an ideal choice for processing carbon black to achieve an 80 mesh fineness. It combines advanced European technology with robust design for stable performance even under long-term operation. Its trapezium-shaped roller and ring configuration reduce energy loss and enhance grinding efficiency.
| Model | Max. Feed Size (mm) | Final Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Main Motor (kW) | Fan Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTW110Z | <30 | 1.6-0.045 | 3-10 | 55 | 55 |
| MTW138Z | <35 | 1.6-0.045 | 6-17 | 90 | 110 |
| MTW175G | <40 | 1.6-0.045 | 9.5-25 | 160 | 200 |
The MTW series offers precise control over the final fineness, making it an excellent option for 80 mesh carbon black production. It also integrates advanced air circulation systems to minimize dust, resulting in an environmentally friendly grinding process suitable for South Africa’s regulatory environment.
For large-scale production environments, the LM Vertical Grinding Mill offers an integrated solution that combines grinding, drying, powder selection, and transport functions. With its vertical design, it reduces plant footprint and simplifies the process line, suitable for both new and retrofit installations in the South African feed industry.
| Model | Plate Diameter (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Output Fineness (μm) | Max Feed Size (mm) | Main Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LM130K | 1300 | 10-28 | 170-40 | <38 | 200 |
| LM190K | 1900 | 23-68 | 170-40 | <45 | 500 |
| LM280K | 2800 | 50-170 | 170-45 | <50 | 1250 |
When processing carbon black, LM vertical mills ensure high throughput while achieving consistent particle size. The system’s integrated classifier enables adjustable output, allowing operators to fine-tune production to exactly 80 mesh with minimal re-processing. Its built-in drying function is also advantageous in South African climates, where varying humidity levels can impact powder consistency.

Both MTW and LM series mills are engineered to meet the demands of modern feed additive production:
Several feed additive companies in South Africa have successfully integrated Shanghai Zenith’s grinding equipment into their production lines. For example, a mid-sized feed producer based in KwaZulu-Natal implemented the MTW110Z system to process carbon black fine powder. The result was a 25% increase in throughput, a 15% reduction in energy use, and a consistently uniform 80 mesh product. Similarly, an agricultural cooperative near Johannesburg adopted the LM130K mill for its integrated drying and grinding efficiency—particularly useful during the region’s humid months.
As sustainability and cost optimization continue to guide the feed industry, the focus on grinding technology will intensify. Innovations such as smart monitoring systems, automated air classifiers, and variable drive controls are being introduced to further optimize throughput and consistency. Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. continues to lead in this evolution, providing solutions tailored not only to production goals but also to environmental and regulatory expectations.
The processing of carbon black for animal feed additives at 80 mesh requires precision grinding equipment that balances capacity, consistency, and environmental considerations. In South Africa, where agricultural productivity and energy efficiency are key concerns, advanced grinding systems from Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd.—such as the MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill and LM Vertical Grinding Mill—provide reliable, high-performance solutions. Their integration helps enhance feed quality, reduce production costs, and ensure compliance with sustainability goals. Zenith’s ongoing commitment to research and innovation ensures that its equipment remains at the forefront of industrial grinding technology, delivering exceptional results for users worldwide.