Zirconia Silicates - Grinding Media Deport

ZIRCONIA SILICATES:

Zirconia Silicates were the first major advancement in improved density and durability without sacrificing price when compared to alumina for a grinding media used in small media mills. It was also found to be less abrasive than what was then available in an alumina bead. Since the origination of zirconia silicate media, many improvements have been made to continue to increase durability, density and available sizes. It continues to be widely used as many customers require a medium density grinding media for optimum performance.

Fused zirconia silica is the melding together of zirconia oxide and silica. The bead’s integrity remains the same from the crust to the core. The beads can be screened after they are worn and the smaller sizes can continue to be used for grinds requiring smaller beads.  However, the larger the bead gets, the more hollows are entrained so the bead gets weaker as it gets larger.  It is not recommended to use a bead larger than 1.75 mm.

Sintered zirconia silicate is a mixture of zirconia oxide and silicate. The two elements remain distinct.  This bead has a harder crust and softer core.  Hollows are not an issue.  However, once the bead is worn and the smaller beads removed, do not use the smaller beads as they would be too soft to have any longevity in a media mill.

The newer products in this category are the higher density zirconia silicates.  They are excellent with high durability compared to the standard beads.  The density is still considered medium range but the grinding power of these beads is greater than the standard beads.

For more detailed information on this subject, please visit the Education & Information section.

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