Which parts of mineral and chemical processing plants use tribological ceramics?

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advanced structural ceramics Figure 1: Resistance to cracking in transformation-toughened zirconia. In a ceramic composed of tetragonal zirconia dispersed in a zirconia matrix, the stress field advancing ahead of a propagating crack transforms the small tetragonal particles to larger monoclinic particles. The larger particles exert a crack-closing force in the process zone behind the crack tip, effectively resisting propagation of the crack.

In mineral and chemical processing plants, tribological ceramics are essential for managing the transport and handling of corrosive and erosive materials, such as chemical solutions, coal slurries, and drilling muds. These advanced materials are utilized in the following components:

Containment and Transport: Chute liners, pipe linings, and cyclone walls and parts.1
Pumping Systems: Pump liners, seals, plungers, and shaft sleeves.1
Flow Control: Various valve parts, including balls, rings, and seals for ball and seat valves, as well as rotary and gate valves.1
Metering: Ceramic metering valves are specifically employed when corrosive or erosive fluids or slurries require precise measurement.1

These ceramics are chosen for their ability to withstand impingement and rubbing wear, which are the primary mechanisms of degradation in these industrial environments.1