This presentation goes over the basics of the potash compaction process, the most commonly used method in potash processing. Compaction granulation turns potash into a usable fertilizer product.

1. Potash
Experts in process design and material
processing for over 60 years.
Compaction Granulation

2. Compaction granulation is the
primary method used to turn
potash fines into a usable
fertilizer product.

3. This method relies on the principle
that under extreme pressure,
some materials will adhere to
themselves without the use of a
binder.

4. Potash fines are fed
between two
counter rotating
rolls. The rolls use
extreme pressure to
press the potash
fines into a form.

5. Potash fines are fed
between two
counter rotating
rolls. The rolls use
extreme pressure to
press the potash
fines into a form.
This form is then
broken up into the
desired granule size.

6. Simplified Compaction Diagram
1. Raw feed
2. Mill
3. Surge Hopper
4. Humidificator Mixer
5. Protecting Screen
6. Compactor
7. Flake Breaker
8. Granulators
9. Screen
10. Polishing Drum
11. Screen
12. Screw for Recycles

7. Two key factors influence the success of
compaction granulation:

8. The Feeding
Mechanism

9. An even, steady pressure across
the face of the rolls is necessary.

10. An even, steady pressure across
the face of the rolls is necessary.
Uneven pressure is often the result
of an inadequate feeding system.

11. Particle Size
Distribution

12. Variance in particle size distribution for the
material feedstock will produce the best
results. This is because smaller particles will fill
in the spaces between larger ones.

13. In addition, a particle size
distribution that is either too fine or
too coarse, can cause processing
problems or produce poor end
product results.

14. Potash granules are sometimes conditioned
in a coarse conditioning drum or paddle
mixer.

15. Potash granules are sometimes conditioned
in a coarse conditioning drum or paddle
mixer.
This allows any loose edges to break away,
a process referred to as “polishing” the
granules.

16. This aids in reducing the potential for
attrition, which is the breakdown of granule
edges into fines.

17. This step also allows the opportunity
to add anti-caking or anti-dusting
additives, if desired.

18. has been working with potash for over 60
years, providing testing, process design
and development, and manufacturing of
potash processing equipment.
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FEECO

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