The Effect of Oxygen upon the Rotary Kiln´s Production and Fuel Efficiency: Theory and Practice

For some thirty years rotary kiln operators have been looking at the possibility of employing tonnage oxygen¿high-purity oxygen produced from air separation plants¿to improve kiln performance. Experience has shown that because of differences in kilns, such as size, thermodynamic characteristics, and feed material, the response varies from one kiln to another. A mathematical model has now been developed which can, within reasonable limits, predict the effect of tonnage oxygen on any given kiln. Use of the model technique affords the kiln operator the opportunity to evaluate the benefits of oxygen enrichment for his particular operation.