PERLITE CLASSIFICATION

Perlite is an expanded mineral characterized by very light, porous particles with a highly flowable behaviour. This property, while beneficial for many applications, can reduce sieving efficiency, as the material tends to move quickly across the mesh surface, limiting the probability of correct particle separation.

The classification process is essential to obtain defined particle size fractions for specific applications such as lightweight concretes, plasters, insulation materials, or filtration media. Accurate separation allows producers to maximize product value while ensuring consistent performance in downstream uses.

Vibrating sieving is suitable for perlite classification, but it requires careful control of the material movement on the sieving surface. Key parameters such as mesh size, throughput, and installation point must be optimized to slow down the material flow and increase residence time on the mesh, thereby improving separation accuracy.

MLT Cuccolini VTU nutation sieves are particularly effective for this application. Their specific motion generates a controlled material distribution across the sieve surface, reducing the speed of perlite particles and increasing the probability of passage for undersize fractions. This results in a more precise classification compared to conventional sieving systems.

Typically installed after expansion or milling processes, the VTU allows the separation of perlite into multiple granulometric fractions while maintaining high throughput. With proper configuration, it is possible to achieve limited oversize contamination levels in the range of 5–10%, ensuring a good balance between efficiency and productivity.

The VTU design also minimizes the risk of product degradation and supports stable operation with low-density materials. Its robust construction and ease of cleaning make it suitable for continuous industrial use, while maintaining consistent performance over time.

Using MLT Cuccolini VTU sieves for perlite classification ensures improved separation accuracy even with highly flowable materials, enabling consistent product quality and better control of granulometric specifications.

The ability to combine precision with high throughput allows producers to optimize process efficiency and maximize the value of their raw material across different applications.

Contact MLT Cuccolini to discuss your perlite classification process and identify the most suitable vibrating sieving solution for your specific application.