Optimization of the drying and firing processes in the production of building bricks

Experiences gained by plant operators regarding the optimization of drying and firing processes for the production of building ceramics are presented in this paper. Greater demands are continually being made on quality and product requirements, especially of backing bricks, in conjunction with energy saving regulations. To survive on the market, manufacturers must constantly deal with new technological and economic problems. Examples are given which show how specific measures can eliminate technical and process engineering deficits of dryers and kilns. A prerequisite for all process engineering measures and/or constructive changes is to determine the actual operation of drying and firing processes by means of suitable measuring technology. The values provided by the installed measurement and control technology do not always correlate with those of actual operation. The most important parameters and the required measurement technology to determine these will be discussed.