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How is gypsum used during the final grinding of cement clinker?
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Cement
The cement-making process, from crushing and grinding of raw materials, through roasting of the ground and mixed ingredients, to final cooling and storing of the finished product.
During the final manufacturing stage of cement, gypsum is added to the cement clinker before they are ground together into a fine powder. This process typically takes place in horizontal mills, which may operate in either an open-circuit or closed-circuit configuration.1
In this context, gypsum serves as a retarder for portland cement, meaning it is used to control and delay the setting time of the cement when it is eventually mixed with water.2