Thermal energy analysis of a lime production process: Rotary kiln, preheater and cooler

In this paper, thermal energy analysis of three zones of a lime production process, which are preheater, rotary kiln and cooler, is performed. In order to perform a proper quantitative estimation, the system was modeled using energy balance equations including coupled heat transfer and chemical reaction mechanisms. A mathematical model was developed, and consequently, the thermal and chemical behavior of limestone was investigated. The model was verified using empirical data. After model confirmation, the variation of Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) versus production rate was predicted and the optimum condition was determined. Subsequently, fuel consumption was calculated regarding to altered residence time inside each zone of lime production process, for a constant output. Results indicate that increasing the residence time inside each zone of lime production process, will enhance thermal efficiency and saves fuel consumption. Relative enhancement will be the same for different sizes of limestone. It was found that a 10-min increase in material residence time inside the preheater or rotary kiln can reduce fuel consumption by around two percent. Whereas, a 5-min increase in material residence time inside the cooler would be enough to obtain a similar result. Finally, the ratio of air-to-fuel and production rate are changed in such a way that the same product is achieved. The model predicts that lowering excess air from 15% to 10% leads to a 2.5% reduction of Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC).