irish cement

Question 1

what materials are used in cement

Answer 1

limestone and shale

Question 2

what is the first step in production of cement

Answer 2

limestone and shale and crushed. then they are blended together as 4 part limestone and 1 part shale. the materials are them ground into a very fine powder called raw meal

Question 3

what is the second step in cemnt production ?

Answer 3

the raw meal is heated in a rotary kiln at 1500’c. when it is cooled it appears to be dark grey gravel known as cement clinker.

Question 4

what is the third step in cement production ?

Answer 4

the clinker is ground in a ball mill. about 5% of gypsum is added now.

Question 5

what is the fourth step in cement production ?

Answer 5

the finished product is then stored in large silos to await dispatch.

Question 6

how does irish cement reduce its impact on the enviroment?

Answer 6

• reducing air and water pollution.
• conserving energy and mineral resources.
• minimising waste.
• reducing the visual impact of its plants.

Question 7

what are the two products of cement?

Answer 7

• normal portland cement (NPC)- a high quality general purpose cement most widely used cement type in ireland.
• rapid hardening portland cement (RHPC)- a special purpose cement used in concrete.

Question 8

where is it located

Answer 8

platin co. meath

castlemungret co. limerick