Tile processing, spray drying

Figure 7.26 Compaction behavior of KBr powder and spray-dried granules of alumina and clay tile as a function of punch pressure. From J. S. Reed, Principles of Ceramics Processing, 2nd ed. Copyright 1995 by John Wiley Sons, Inc. This material is used by permission of John Wiley Sons, Inc.

Spray drying [B.48, B.97] is used in the manufacture of granulated press powders for tiles and electronic parts. It also plays an important role in the industrial production and development of high-performance (advanced) ceramics because of the ability of this process to meet size distribution requirements and give granules with a smooth surface and spherical shape, all resulting in excellent flowability, which is important for the subsequent forming step. Another reason for the widespread use of spray dryers in the ceramic industry is the fact that they can handle abrasive feedstocks without problems. 

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