With the increasing environmental awareness and stricter emission regulations, desulfurization has become a critical part of many industrial processes in Malaysia, particularly in power generation and cement industries. One of the key materials used for desulfurization is diatomite, a naturally occurring siliceous rock composed of fossilized remains of diatoms. Due to its porous structure and high adsorption capacity, diatomite has proven to be a highly efficient medium for flue gas desulfurization (FGD) and waste treatment applications. However, to fully harness its potential, the raw diatomite must undergo a fine grinding process to achieve a suitable particle size distribution for desulfurization efficiency.
Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., a leading grinding equipment manufacturer in China, provides a series of industrial mills suitable for diatomite processing. Their advanced powder grinding technologies have been widely applied in various industries across Asia, including Malaysia. This article focuses on the technical and practical considerations for implementing a 1–3 TPH diatomite grinding system for desulfurization in Malaysia and introduces suitable equipment solutions from Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd.
Diatomite, also known as diatomaceous earth, is primarily composed of amorphous silica (SiO₂) and exhibits high porosity, low density, and strong thermal stability. These characteristics make it an excellent material for filtering, adsorption, and catalysis. In flue gas desulfurization systems, finely ground diatomite can adsorb sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and convert it into stable by-products such as calcium sulfate or gypsum when combined with other reactants.
For efficient desulfurization, diatomite requires a controlled particle size within the range of 45–325 mesh (approximately 38–325 μm), depending on the process design and gas composition. Therefore, selecting an appropriate grinding technology is vital for achieving the optimal balance between energy consumption, capacity, and product fineness.
Malaysia’s industrial plants typically seek compact, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly grinding systems due to limitations in plant space and local energy costs. For a desulfurization production line targeting 1–3 tons per hour (TPH) of diatomite powder, the grinding mill must satisfy the following requirements:
For 1–3 TPH diatomite grinding in Malaysia, the MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill from Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. is an ideal choice. This series of mills adopts advanced European technology combined with Zenit’s decades of engineering experience. It offers fine powder processing with high efficiency, excellent particle uniformity, and a reliable dust removal system, making it suitable for environmentally sensitive applications such as desulfurization.
The MTW110 model, in particular, fits perfectly for small and medium-scale plants with a target throughput between 3–9 TPH, allowing flexibility for potential production expansion.
| Model | Max. Feed Size (mm) | Final Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Main Motor (kW) | Fan Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTW110 | <30 | 1.6–0.045 | 3–9 | 55 | 55 |
| MTW110Z | <30 | 1.6–0.045 | 3–10 | 55 | 55 |
The MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill integrates multiple functions including crushing, grinding, classification, and conveying in a single unit. Its bevel gear transmission system ensures smooth and efficient power performance, while the advanced air circulation system minimizes dust emissions—essential for Malaysian industrial standards.
Another suitable choice for diatomite grinding in the 1–3 TPH range is the LM Vertical Grinding Mill. This machine excels in combining crushing, drying, grinding, and classification, which can significantly reduce the total system footprint and simplify process flow. The LM series is known for its ability to produce uniform fine powders with high efficiency and minimal power consumption.
| 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 |
| LM130X-GX | 1300 | 4–12 | 325–600 mesh | <38 | 220 |
For a 1–3 TPH diatomite grinding line, the LM130X-GX model offers precise output control within a high mesh range suitable for desulfurization-grade powder. The vertical design ensures minimal energy loss, and its sealed structure prevents dust leakage, enhancing operator safety and plant cleanliness.
To ensure optimal performance in Malaysia’s humid environment, the diatomite grinding system should incorporate efficient drying mechanisms. Both MTW and LM mills from Zenith feature integrated hot air systems, allowing simultaneous drying and grinding—especially beneficial when handling raw diatomite with higher moisture content (6–10%).
Additionally, the system can integrate automatic control modules for feed regulation, temperature monitoring, and dynamic classifier adjustment. This intelligent control helps stabilize product fineness and prevents equipment overloading. Zenith’s modular equipment design facilitates smooth installation, streamlined commissioning, and simple integration with pre-existing desulfurization reactors.
Energy efficiency is an essential factor for grinding operations in Malaysia due to its rising industrial power tariffs. Both MTW and LM series grinding mills are designed with energy savings in mind. The trapezoidal grinding rollers and optimized air ducts of the MTW series reduce unnecessary air resistance, thus lowering energy consumption. Meanwhile, the LM series adopts high-efficiency separators and a fully enclosed system to minimize dust emissions and achieve green production standards.
For environmental compliance, these mills can be coupled with pulse dust collectors to meet emission standards of less than 20 mg/m³. This ensures that the plant operations align with Malaysian Department of Environment’s air quality regulations.
In a Malaysian limestone and diatomite processing plant, the introduction of the MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill has improved output consistency and reduced energy consumption by 15% compared to traditional Raymond mills. The fine diatomite powder produced by the MTW system showed enhanced SO₂ absorption efficiency in the wet-desulfurization tower, contributing to a 95% sulfur removal rate. The stable operation also minimized maintenance intervals, thereby lowering operating costs for the plant.
For small to medium-scale desulfurization projects in Malaysia, utilizing a dedicated diatomite grinding system with an output range of 1–3 TPH is both feasible and economically efficient. With its strong research and manufacturing capabilities, Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. offers advanced solutions that cater to these needs. The MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill is ideal for energy-efficient, precision-controlled grinding, while the LM Vertical Grinding Mill delivers integrated drying and grinding performance in compact installations.
Both options can significantly enhance desulfurization effectiveness by producing high-quality diatomite powders, helping Malaysian industries meet environmental goals while achieving operational excellence.
Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd. continues to lead innovation in grinding technology, providing reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly solutions to clients worldwide.
