Introduction

Gypsum is one of the most widely used construction materials, derived from natural gypsum rock. This mineral, with its crystalline texture, is extracted and processed for use in construction, particularly for covering walls and ceilings. In this article, we explore the production stages of gypsum, its types, and its extensive applications.

Applications of Construction Gypsum

Construction gypsum plays a significant role in various aspects of construction. Some of its most important applications include:

• Covering interior surfaces of buildings (walls, ceilings, and columns)

• Plasterwork and interior decoration (creating beautiful designs on walls and ceilings)

• Preparing gypsum mortar (for bonding construction materials)

• Sound and thermal insulation (reducing noise transmission and maintaining indoor temperatures)

• Non-construction applications (medical, sculpture, glassmaking, and ceramics)

Production Stages of Construction Gypsum

1. Extraction and Transportation to the Factory
   Gypsum rock is naturally found in mines and is extracted using heavy machinery before being transported to the factory. The rocks are initially crushed and broken down into smaller pieces using crushers. The number of crushing stages varies depending on the hardness and quality of the rock.

2. Separation and Screening
   In this stage, the crushed rocks are sorted by size and quality. Suitable pieces are transferred to special silos to prepare for the next stage, which is calcination.

3. Calcination Stage
   Gypsum rock is calcined in specialized kilns. Depending on the hardness and moisture content of the rock, the calcination temperature is set between 100 to 350 degrees Celsius. During this process, the gypsum becomes semi-hydrated and is ready for grinding and packaging.

4. Grinding and Packaging
   After calcination, the gypsum is transferred to grinding mills and turned into fine powder. It is then placed in specialized packaging machines and prepared for use in construction and other industries.

Equipment Required in a Gypsum Factory

To produce high-quality gypsum, the use of standardized machinery is essential. Some key equipment in this process includes:

• Crushers (jaw, hammer, and impact crushers)

• Industrial mills

• Conveyor belts and feeders

• Calcination kilns (Louvered and Hiburn)

• Industrial burners

• Screening and sieving machines

• Storage silos and packaging machines

Types of Gypsum and Their Characteristics

• Plaster Gypsum: Used for covering interior surfaces and creating smooth, even finishes.

• Alabaster Gypsum: With a soft texture, it is used for sculptures and delicate work.

• Gyptone Gypsum: High adhesion, suitable for cement and concrete coatings.

• Satin Gypsum: Combined with perlite, it provides strength and beautiful wall finishes.

• Siva Gypsum: Moisture-resistant, suitable for oil painting and PVC coatings.

Conclusion

Gypsum is a vital construction material used in various stages of building construction. Its production process includes extraction, separation, calcination, grinding, and packaging. The use of advanced machinery and adherence to standards significantly impact the final quality of the product. By understanding the different types of gypsum, it can be utilized in various applications, from construction to other industries.