Toward Operational Excellence in Cement Manufacturing Using Elemental and Mineralogical Analysis: An Overview of Critical Success Factors

Abstract

Elemental and mineralogical analysis techniques are key in controlling cement production. They provide essential information needed for optimizing raw material streams, ensuring correct process conditions, and obtaining products with the correct specification that comply with relevant industry norms. The integration of these techniques in quality assurance and control environments involves several aspects that need to be carefully considered to guarantee successful implementation in a sustainable way. This paper provides an overview of critical factors that determine the success of implementing X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, and neutron activation in quality assurance and quality control workflows. Aspects that are addressed include sampling and sample preparation, calibration, allowing for flexibility to handle a variety of material streams, and ensuring norm compliance and inter- and intra-company standardization. Recommendations are given on how optimize sample preparation and analysis set-up, workflows, and maintenance schemes.