Selection of size enlargement methods

A simple approach to specifying a suitable size enlargement method for a given application is by analogy to techniques currently used for similar materials. If a similar material can be identified in the applications summary of Table 1.4 (or in the more detailed information given in later chapters), and if process objectives are similar in terms of agglomerate size, strength, etc., then the methods used for the established product may well be applicable to the new material. 

A more fundamental approach to process selection first requires a clear definition of the problem and size enlargement objectives. This is followed by comparison with the capabilities of the available processes as catalogued in Table 1.3 and in greater detail in later chapters. Promising methods can then be selected and the clearly unsuitable methods ruled out. Factors to be considered in this comparison include  

Feed characteristics. Is the material sufficiently fine to ball it by tumbling agglomeration Is it sufficiently plastic to allow extrusion If a slurry 

Ceramics forming Pharmaceuticals Food processing Chemical and other industries 

Clay granulation for pressing Tablet feed granulation Fluid bed waste incineration, sulfur granulation, calcination of nuclear reactor wastes 

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