FLSmidth helps lift white cement production in Saudi Arabia

White cement is especially sought-after in countries with relatively hot climates, as it tends to help keep buildings cooler with its reflective characteristics. In addition, as a high quality, value added product, white cement is often used in the construction of innovative buildings and important landmarks. Many cement producers feel that the time is right to increase their white cement production capacity.

Alsafwa Cement Co., based in Saudi Arabia, has recently awarded FLSmidth a contract to convert one of its grey cement kiln lines. This will involve the cost-effective modification of existing equipment to create a dual white and grey cement production facility.

FLSmidth brings significant experience and know-how to this project, having conducted several similar grey-to-white conversions in recent years. This includes for the Riyadh Cement Co. in Saudi Arabia and Adana Cement in Turkey.

“We have seen the success of FLSmidth conversions elsewhere in the region, so they were an obvious choice as supplier of the expertise and various equipment we needed,” said Yasser Zayed, CEO at Alsafwa Cement. “FLSmidth’s track record of supplying know-how and technology for white cement production was a key factor for us.”

It is expected that the modified kiln will be commissioned in early 2020, and the production objectives are to produce a minimum of 2000 tpd of white clinker, with a maximum heat consumption of 1380 kcal/kg of clinker.

An FLSmidth Duoflex^® burner is a central element in white cement production, and the conversion project involves installing this burner inside the kiln. Only minor changes will be made to the current preheater, with as much existing equipment as possible being reused. This will help keep costs to a minimum. In this case, the oil handling equipment, clinker cooler, raw material storage system, and raw mill grinding equipment will be reused.

“There is no doubt that, in conversions such as this at Alsafwa Cement Co., our customers need to see a clear business case,” said Omar Rabia, Sales Manager at FLSmidth. “With our Duoflex burner and the reuse of existing equipment, we not only ensure a faster return on investment, but we also reduce future operations costs when production commences with the modified kiln.”

The flexibility to adapt to market demands is a crucial competitive factor and the new production capability will allow Alsafwa Cement Co. to convert easily between grey or white cement production as necessary.

The conversion of an existing grey cement line at Alsafwa Cement Co. to a dual process line for white and grey cement includes modifying the kiln and preheater sections.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/asia-pacific-rim/26062019/flsmidth-helps-lift-white-cement-production-in-saudi-arabia/