Production Management and Control of Operational Variables: An Experimental Study in a Vertical Roller Mill
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.67144/READS.v1.n1.2026.gyva8y89Keywords:
production management, productivity, vertical roller mill, limestone granulometry, factorial experimentAbstract
Competition among cement industries has intensified in light of growth expectations in the sector and the high energy costs involved in cement production processes. In this context, the grinding stage stands out as one of the most critical phases, particularly in the production of raw meal using a vertical roller mill. Despite the widespread use of this equipment, empirical studies that systematically analyze the impact of the physical characteristics of the fed limestone on mill productivity remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of the percentage of fines and limestone moisture on the productive performance of a vertical roller mill. To this end, a 2² factorial experiment was conducted, with a 5% significance level, in a cement plant located in the interior of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The results indicated that the percentage of fines has a statistically significant and negative effect on productivity, as well as the interaction between the percentage of fines and moisture. It was observed that a fines content of 40% led to an approximate 4% reduction in production when compared to a content of 30%. It is concluded that controlling limestone granulometry, combined with moisture monitoring, constitutes a strategic factor for maximizing productivity and maintaining industrial competitiveness.
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