Special reports

Dr Diana Casey, Mineral Products Association, gives an overview on the current state of the British cement industry and what benefits and hurdles lie ahead for operators in the UK.

Emanuele Stancanelli, Bedeschi, discusses a range of machinery designed to help cement plants enhance their bulk materials handling capabilities, offering details on a number of projects they have undertaken over the last year.

Tahir Abbas and Michalis Akritopoulos, Cinar Ltd., discuss the key factors cement plants should consider when increasing the substitution rate of alternative fuels in their production process.

Tao Junpu, Sinoma-EC, provides details on the latest technologies being implemented in SRC-based WHR systems and highlights the benefits offered by the less common ORC-based WHR systems.

Li Kunming, China Cement Net Big Data Study Institute, and Ma Qingfang, WCA Beijing Office, outline the developmental trends in the Chinese cement sector, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Chinese operators in the future.

Simon Thomsen, Leilac, describes a unique decarbonisation solution built for, and in partnership with, the cement industry, outlining their vision for carbon neutrality.

Olaf Michelswirth, Intercem, explains why interest in modular grinding plants is growing among cement plant operators around the world.

Achim Rott, robecco, describes the mechanics behind emergency inerting systems, explaining the correct procedures to ensure the buildup of combustible dust does not lead to fires and explosions.

R. Todd Swinderman, Martin Engineering, outlines the factors that operators must consider when upgrading their conveyor systems in order to ensure their modifications actually improve performance.

Berthold Bussieweke, Thorwesten Vent, walks through constructional explosion protection in grinding and storage plants processing coal, alternative fuels, and other explosive media.

Katie Wills, Cemfree, explores the changes that need to be made to construction industry standards to support the widespread use of AACMs.

L. Lopes and Dr. O. Mielenz, HEKO, highlight the technical knowledge and manufacturing expertise required to provide customised chains and components for tailor-made conveyor systems.

Max Tschurtschenthaler, ABB, and Joonas Rauramo, Coolbrook, discuss how a pioneering project aimed at replacing fossil fuels with renewable electricity has the potential to slash carbon emissions from cement production and help meet customer demand for CO2-free products.

Start-ups from around the world can play a leading role in helping an essential global industry in its efforts to cut CO2 emissions and help solve the climate challenge.

The GCCA, whose member companies operate across the world, is running a campaign to help encourage more women to join the industry in 2023.