Recovered carbon black (rCB) is an increasingly important material in the circular economy, particularly as industries seek more sustainable practices. rCB is produced by pyrolyzing waste tires, which not only addresses the disposal problem of used tires but also recovers valuable materials. The production process involves several key stages, each critical to achieving high-quality rCB suitable for use in various applications, including rubber products, plastics, coatings, and inks.
The first step in producing rCB is pyrolysis, a thermal decomposition process conducted in the absence of oxygen. Waste tires are subjected to high temperatures, typically between 400°C and 600°C. This process breaks down the complex hydrocarbons in the tires into smaller molecules, resulting in three primary products: pyrolysis oil, gas, and solid residue. The solid residue contains carbon black, which, after further refinement, becomes rCB.
After pyrolysis, the carbon black obtained is not immediately ready for industrial use. The raw carbon black contains impurities, including ash and metal particles, which need to be removed. The purification process typically involves magnetic separation and acid washing to ensure the rCB meets industry standards.
One of the most critical steps in rCB production is grinding the purified carbon black to the desired particle size. The performance characteristics of rCB, such as its reinforcement properties in rubber compounds, largely depend on its particle size and distribution. This is where advanced grinding technology comes into play.
Our SCM Ultrafine Mill is the ideal solution for grinding recovered carbon black to the ultra-fine sizes required in various applications. With an input size capacity of up to 20 mm and an output size range of 325 to 3250 mesh, the SCM Ultrafine Mill delivers the precision and consistency necessary for producing high-quality rCB. The mill’s advanced design, incorporating both Chinese and Swedish technologies, ensures efficient grinding with minimal energy consumption, making it both a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
Once the rCB is ground to the desired fineness, it can be utilized in a wide range of applications. In the rubber industry, rCB can be used as a reinforcing agent in the production of tires, rubber seals, and other rubber products, offering comparable performance to carbon black. Additionally, rCB finds applications in the production of plastics, where it enhances UV resistance and color properties. In the coatings and inks industries, rCB provides the necessary pigmentation and conductivity.
Ensuring consistent quality in rCB is crucial for its acceptance in various industries. This requires stringent quality control measures throughout the production process, from pyrolysis to grinding and final packaging. Our SCM Ultrafine Mill plays a vital role in this process by delivering uniform particle sizes and ensuring the final product meets or exceeds industry specifications.
The production of recovered carbon black is a complex process that requires advanced technology at every stage to ensure the final product’s quality and usability. The SCM Ultrafine Mill is an essential component of this process, providing the necessary grinding precision and efficiency. By incorporating our mill into your rCB production line, you can achieve the high standards required by today’s demanding markets while contributing to a more sustainable future.
For more information on how our SCM Ultrafine Mill can enhance your recovered carbon black production line, please contact us.