A rotary kiln is a large, cylindrical thermal processing equipment used in various industries to heat materials at high temperatures (typically between 800°C and 2000°C) in a continuous or batch process. It consists of a rotating steel shell lined with refractory materials, tilted slightly to allow material to move from the feed end to the discharge end.

Key Components of a Rotary Kiln
1. Rotating Shell: A long, cylindrical steel tube that rotates slowly (0.5–5 RPM) on supporting rollers.
2. Revestimiento refractario: Protects the shell from extreme heat and chemical reactions.
3. Sistema de accionamiento: Includes motor, caja de cambios, and girth gear for rotation.
4. Support Rollers & Thrust Rollers: Bear the kiln’s weight and maintain alignment.
5. Burner & Fuel System: Provides heat (gas, aceite, carbón, or alternative fuels).
6. Sistema de sellado: Prevents air leakage at inlet/outlet ends.
7. Exhaust System: Removes gases and dust.

Types of Rotary Kilns
- Direct-Fired Kiln: Heat is applied directly to the material (p.ej., cemento, cal).
- Indirect-Fired Kiln: Material is heated through an external jacket (p.ej., calcination of chemicals).
- Co-Current vs. Counter-Current Flow: Depending on gas-material flow direction.

Aplicaciones
1. Producción de cemento (Clinker formation)
2. Lime Calcination (CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂)
3. Metalurgia (Iron ore pelletizing, alumina calcination)
4. Waste Treatment (Hazardous waste incineration)
5. Procesamiento químico (TiO₂ production, phosphate calcination)
6. Procesamiento de minerales (Kaolin, yeso)

Ventajas
- High thermal efficiency
- Continuous operation
- Ability to handle abrasive/high-temperature materials
- Versatile fuel options

Desafíos
- High capital & costos de mantenimiento
- Refractory wear over time
- Emissions control requirements

Would you like details on a specific type or application?