Ball Mill
The JOEST Ball Mill is a specialized grinding unit for the mechanical processing of metal-bearing dross, such as that generated during the aluminum, zinc or copper melting processes. The system enables efficient separation of metallic and oxidic components through targeted crushing and classification.
The ball mill is designed for batch operation in standstill mode and is ideal for use in enclosed systems with dust extraction. Thanks to intelligent process control based on the particle concentration in the exhaust air, the grinding duration can be flexibly adjusted to the input material. This allows both high metal recovery and maximum oxide reduction depending on the processing objective.
The system meets the highest standards for occupational safety, emission control and energy efficiency, offering a future-proof solution for modern recycling processes in foundries and melting operations.
FUNCTION
The ball mill operates in batch mode: First, dross is fed into the grinding cylinder via a closed conveyor pipe. The cylinder is equipped with specialized steel grinding balls and lifting ribs. As the cylinder rotates (approx. 27–32 rpm), a powerful mixing effect is created through impact and friction. In the process, the brittle oxide fractions are broken down finely, while the ductile metallic components are mostly deformed plastically.
At the same time, an axial airflow continuously extracts fine oxide particles from the grinding chamber – these are transferred to a dust collector via a pre-connected filtration system. The control system monitors the dust concentration in the exhaust air in real time. Once a preset purity level is reached, the mill automatically ends the grinding cycle.
After completion of the grinding process, discharge is carried out via reverse rotation of the discharge screw – the batch is discharged cleanly and safely. The entire system is encapsulated and integrated into a soundproof cabin, which minimizes both noise and dust emissions. This enables the ball mill to meet high standards in occupational safety, emission control and process management in enclosed systems.
TECHNICAL DATA
Batch operation: Yes, batchwise in standstill mode
Typical grinding time: 20–30 minutes (adjustable)
Speed (grinding chamber): approx. 27–32 rpm
Feeding unit: Frontal feed pipe
Grinding chamber equipment: Lifting ribs + grinding balls
Discharge: Reversible direction + discharge screw
Control: Dust concentration sensor
Typical throughput: approx. 300–800 kg/batch (material-dependent)
Sound insulation: Cabin included
Dust extraction: Axial flow with connection to dust filter system
PRODUCT DETAILS & OPTIONS
- Grinding chamber: Robust cylinder with lifting ribs
- Feeding: Direct via front-mounted feed pipe
- Grinding balls: Specifically designed for dross processing
- Discharge: Reversible direction with discharge screw
- Dust extraction: Axial airflow connected to filter system
- Operation: Batch mode, adjustable grinding time, speed, separation section
- Dust concentration monitoring: Automatic control of grinding time
- Soundproof cabin: Minimizes operating noise
- Material preparation: Protective screening >80 mm, optionally with crusher
- Conveying systems: Vibratory conveyors and sidewall belt conveyors
Fields of Application
The ball mill is suitable for a wide range of industrial applications where metal-bearing residues are efficiently processed and valuable materials are recovered. It can be integrated into enclosed systems with screening and filter units.
In aluminum, zinc, brass or copper foundries – recovery of secondary metals from aluminum dross.
Processing of fine-grained metal slag
Recycling of metal-bearing residues, separation of metallic and oxidic fractions
Equipment Options
For specific requirements and plant concepts, numerous equipment options are available to make operation of the ball mill even more efficient, flexible and safe.
Protective Screening
For pre-screening of coarse components over 80 mm – ensures consistent material feed.
Pre-Crusher
For mechanical pre-crushing of bulky dross and slag before grinding.
Vibratory Feeder Technology
For continuous, metered feeding of the grinding chamber without material blockage.
Sidewall Belt Conveyor
Gentle discharge of sensitive fractions – even at steep conveying angles.
Frequency Converter
Allows stepless speed adjustment for variable grinding requirements.
Screening Unit
Classification of material into defined grain sizes – directly after grinding.
Automatic Control
Automated adjustment of grinding time and separation cut via dust sensor.
Dust Filter Unit
For connection to existing extraction systems – effectively reduces emissions.
Dust Sensor
Continuously measures particle concentration for process monitoring.
Control Cabinet with Touch Panel
Central control of all functions – intuitive, safe and user-friendly.
Advantages
The ball mill offers a wide range of advantages that significantly improve both efficiency and operational safety, as well as environmental compatibility in the metal processing industry.
Your Material. Our Test Center.
Before our solutions go into real-world operation, they are thoroughly tested in our in-house test center. We examine your materials under realistic conditions and develop tailored, practice-oriented concepts.