Reliable and efficient kiln sealing
What’s new with the Spring Tensioned Graphite Seal
The inline row of graphite blocks that make up the FLSmidth Cement Spring-tensioned Graphite Seal are actuated by individual thrust modules, which ensure efficient sealing towards the rotating parts – i.e. the sealing ring or the cooling mantle – at inlet and outlet, respectively. This arrangement allows the graphite blocks to move individually with the movement of the kiln without any risk of getting stuck or damaged. We’ve also added a linear guide system to the tensioning module to prevent lateral movement and stop false air entering the kiln system.
The compact thrust module generates the individual thrust to each graphite block by a spring suspended/tensioned in the module. Four bearings operate with low friction on two hardened stainless-steel shafts to secure a controlled and fast response to the kiln runout. The module easily takes up any movements of up to ±50mm caused by kiln runout, ovality or expansion. With an individual tensioning arrangement for each block, we eliminate the risk of failure across numerous blocks compared to other tensioning systems, such as wire ropes. The spring force can be adjusted as the graphite blocks wear.
