Manufacturing Overview

The typical steps in the manufacturing of wollastonite include:

1. Mining - Wollastonite ore is generally mined using conventional surface methods.
2. Crushing - several stages of crushing, reducing the ore’s initial size.
3. Mineral Refinement - wollastonite is separated from its associated minerals via magnetic separation, floatation or physical sorting.
4. Processing - the ore is ground through a variety of grinding and air classification techniques, preserving the aspect-ratio for high aspect-ratio (HAR) grades.
5. Finished Product

Due to the competitive nature of the wollastonite industry, producers who have spent years perfecting their products jealously guard the details of high aspect-ratio wollastonite production. Ultimately, the highest quality products are made by those with the technical depth and expertise to retain the greatest aspect-ratio.

Surface treatment is necessary in applications where wollastonite needs to be compatible with specific organic chemistries. Once treated, techniques for careful handling are important to maintain the integrity of wollastonite surfaces.

When wollastonite is used as a source for CaO and SiO2, high aspect-ratio processing is unnecessary. These high purity products are most efficiently produced with conventional equipment and are then typically destined for either ceramic or metallurgical applications.

Click here for Additional Reading about manufacturing wollastonite in the Manufacturing Overview (PDF).

Process Handling Overview

NYCO has the benefit of many years of experience in handling wollastonite products – in our production facilities and in numerous manufacturing facilities. Our products can be moved horizontally or vertically with a variety of conveying equipment, the selection of which depends on the product, situation and application.

When handling our products in bins, hoppers and processing vessels, the flow characteristics are not unlike those of other bulk solids. Storage and handling systems are designed to accommodate flow characteristics to ensure that handling is problem-free. NYCO’s products can be moved successfully over large distances through a variety of transportation modes. Our wealth of experience with such handling is a comfort to our clients.

Click here for Additional Reading about processing handling in the Manufacturing Overview (PDF).