The Portland Cement Association (PCA) announced the winners of the 2019 Chairman’s Manufacturing Performance Awards, which recognize PCA Associate Member company accomplishments in the advancement of cement manufacturing over the previous year in three main areas: innovative products, unique processes and best-in-class practices.
1st place: RHI Magnesita – For a silicon dioxide impregnated refractory using nano-particle sized silica. The case study presented demonstrated reduced porosity, reduced permeability, increased alkali resistance, and increased abrasion resistance. Of particular note was the coating repellency, lower thermal conductivity, and insensitivity to water vapor of this refractory.
2nd place: BEUMER Group – For a successful implementation of an alternative fuel system. The case study presented demonstrated storage, mixture, and feeding of four different alternative fuels to both ends of two kilns. Of particular note was the accomplishment of taking the plant from no alternative fuel use to a 25% substitution rate with alternative fuel feeding both at the main burner and at the preheater tower.
3rd place (TIE): FLSmidth, Inc. – For a high-efficiency, high-performance V-series rotary feeder and airlock that replaces screw pumps in many pneumatic conveying applications. The case study presented demonstrated a saving in power consumption of 32% with an annual cost savings of $160,000.
3rd place (TIE): W.L. Gore and Associates – For a low drag filter bag membrane installation. The case studies presented demonstrated energy savings and appreciable drops in differential pressures with one plant experiencing a 16% increase in feed rate and 9% increase in airflow.
