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The
ARL 8680S "Total Cement Analyzer"
A
vigilant watch on quality is maintained around the
clock as Quality Control Laboratory Technicians perform
numerous chemical analysis tests each hour on raw materials, clinker,
and finished cement using the ARL 8680S
"Total Cement Analyzer." The flexibility and speed of analysis of the x-ray fluorescence
spectrometer allows us to closely monitor the process. This
instrument is very useful in research and development
as it can accurately quantify most known elements.
The
petrographic microscope quickly reveals kiln burning
conditions. Details of crystal size, morphology, abundance,
and distribution are interpreted and used to determine
the rate of temperature rise, resident time in the
burning zone, and cooling rate of the clinker as it
passes through the kiln. Classical wet chemistry methods
are used to determine tests not available from the
total cement analyzer. Tests include loss on ignition,
insoluble residue, free lime, solid fuel analysis,
and water analysis. |
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The
laboratory test results are automatically fed into
the various computerized mill feed control systems
to maximize product control uniformity.
Concern
for quality does not end at the plant. Customers
want to produce a quality product, and Monarch
wants to help. Through analysis of concrete-making
material, testing of hardened and plastic concrete,
educational programs, and research projects,
the Quality Concrete Technology Lab provides
the technical assistance necessary to optimize
production.
The
final test of quality is in the performance
of the finished product. Many tests are performed
on each mill test sample to assure a quality
product. All testing meets the requirements
of the Federal Government, The American Society
for Testing and Materials, and various states'
Departments of Transportation.
A
concrete cube is compressed and tested.
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