In Zambia’s ongoing pursuit of industrial development and environmental stewardship, the power generation and mining sectors face increasing pressure to reduce sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions. Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) is a key technology in this endeavor, and phosphate rock has emerged as an effective and locally relevant sorbent material for wet scrubbing processes. The efficiency of this desulfurization method hinges on one critical factor: the fineness and quality of the ground phosphate rock. A consistent, high-volume supply of finely ground powder is essential for maximizing the surface area and reactivity with SO2. This article explores the technical requirements for a 20-30 tons per hour (TPH) phosphate rock grinding system in Zambia and presents optimal machinery solutions.
Phosphate rock, typically a medium-hardness mineral, must be ground to a specific fineness to be effective in FGD systems. The target particle size generally ranges from 200 mesh (75μm) to 325 mesh (45μm). A grinding system for a 20-30 TPH application must not only meet this fineness specification reliably but also offer:

After a thorough analysis of the technical parameters and operational demands, Shanghai Zenith Machinery’s LM Vertical Grinding Mill stands out as the premier choice for this 20-30 TPH phosphate rock desulfurization project in Zambia.
As a leading manufacturer of ore grinding equipment, Zenith has perfected the vertical mill design. The LM series integrates five functions—crushing, grinding, powder selection, drying, and material conveying—into a single, cohesive unit. This integration is particularly beneficial for processing phosphate rock, which may require drying. Its vertical structure grants it a significantly smaller footprint compared to traditional ball mills, an important consideration for plant design.
For a 20-30 TPH requirement, the LM190K Vertical Mineral Mill is the ideal model. Its technical parameters align perfectly with the project’s needs:
| Model | Plate Diameter (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Output Fineness (μm) | Max Feed Size (mm) | Main Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LM190K | 1900 | 23-68 | 170-40 | <45 | 500 |
The LM190K’s guaranteed capacity range comfortably envelops the 20-30 TPH target, providing operational flexibility. Its ability to produce powder in the 170-40μm (approximately 80-400 mesh) range meets and exceeds the fineness requirements for FGD sorbents. Furthermore, its high grinding efficiency translates to lower energy consumption per ton of product, a key factor in reducing the lifetime operating costs of the desulfurization plant.

For projects where the raw phosphate rock is consistently dry and a slightly different configuration is preferred, Zenith’s MTW Trapezium Grinding Mill presents another excellent, high-efficiency option. Known for its multiple national patents, eco-friendly design, and stable performance, the MTW series is a robust workhorse for non-metallic mineral grinding.
The MTW175G model is well-suited for the lower end of the required throughput range, offering a perfect balance of capacity and fineness control.
| Model | Max. Feed Size (mm) | Final Size (mm) | Capacity (t/h) | Main Motor (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTW175G | <40 | 1.6-0.045 | 9.5-25 | 160 |
While its base capacity peaks at 25 TPH, operational optimizations and favorable material conditions can reliably achieve the 20 TPH target. Its curved air duct design and internal powder concentrator contribute to high classification efficiency, ensuring a consistent product quality ideal for the FGD reaction.
The success of a large-scale desulfurization initiative in Zambia depends on selecting the right core technology for sorbent preparation. A grinding mill that delivers consistent 20-30 TPH of high-quality phosphate rock powder is the backbone of this process. Shanghai Zenith Machinery Co., Ltd., with its extensive expertise in ultra-fine powder grinding and a comprehensive portfolio of industrial grinding equipment, is uniquely positioned to support this goal.
We recommend the LM190K Vertical Grinding Mill as the primary solution for its integrated drying capability, high capacity, and exceptional energy efficiency. The MTW175G Trapezium Mill serves as a powerful alternative for specific project conditions. By investing in Zenith’s reliable and advanced grinding technology, Zambian industries can achieve effective emission control, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to a more sustainable environment, all while optimizing their long-term operational economics.
