Combining multiple process steps with pelletizing
Pelletizing is a well-known agglomeration method that can improve material flowability, suppress dust, and prevent segregation. One problem with pelletizing is that it typically requires more than one step, which can be ex- pensive and make the process difficult to control. How- ever, pelletizing equipment that combines multiple process steps in one machine can help you reduce capital costs and improve process control. This article discusses the pelletizer/multistep processor, its benefits and applications, and how to determine if the equipment can handle your process.
In pelletizing, one [or more] fine raw powder is mixed with a binder; if more than one powder is used, they often have different particle sizes or different densities [or both]. The binder can be a liquid [most commonly water or a substance that contains water] or a solid [which must be liquefied, either by mixing with water or another liquid or by melting]. The binder coats the particle surfaces to bond them together, forming green, or wet, pellets. The pellets are then dried to an acceptable residual moisture content.