Fundamental approaches

Fundamental approach

Soap-based technology

Soap-based technology is prone to sludge formation and requires frequent cleaning (mill stands and emulsion system).

This impacts on productivity and product quality.

NOA technology

Develop deeper understanding of NOA technology and the inconsistent sludge formation performance experienced in practice.

Steel technology transfer – Research into cleaner mill environments

Ongoing research to develop cleaner mill environments in steel rolling.

Wear simulator test development.

It may be possible to transfer the technology experience from steel rolling.

First:

1. Benchmark the different technologies

2. Understand the mechanisms involved

Develop fundamental understanding of sludge dispersibility

The relationship between emulsion composition and dispersibility is not well understood.

Breaking up of the sludge/scum:

 Sludge dispersion mechanism not understood

 Experience from metalworking may be useful

 Involve Cleaner experts

Change wetting properties of Al-fines

Possible use of P-compounds

Soap-based technology exclusion

The mill cleanliness requirement will most probably exclude the current soap-based technologies.

China competitor feedback

KWD customers (4) report cleaner mills compared to QH technology.

What are the differences?

 Higher TE ranges.

 Higher emulsifier content

 High stability / smaller particle sizes