Materials Suitable for Aluminum Dross Briquetting Presses
Aluminum dross briquetting presses are designed to process specific materials, primarily focusing on aluminum dross and related byproducts from aluminum production and recycling. Their suitability depends on material composition, moisture content, and particle size, ensuring efficient compaction into dense briquettes.
Primary Materials
White Dross
From primary smelting, with higher metallic aluminum content (10–40%). Compacts well due to relatively clean composition with mainly aluminum oxides and metallic particles.
Black Dross
From secondary recycling, containing more oxides and contaminants but still processable if metallic content exceeds 5%. May require additional pre-treatment.
Aluminum Skimmings
Light, fluffy residues from molten aluminum surfaces. Often mixed with dross to improve briquette integrity due to high metallic content.
Aluminum Fines
Small aluminum particles from machining or grinding operations. Excellent for briquetting when combined with other materials.
Material Requirements
- Moisture content between 3–8% for optimal compaction (avoid >10% or <2%)
- Minimal non-aluminum debris (rocks, plastics, wood) that could damage equipment
- Salt flux concentrations below thresholds that would weaken briquette structure
- Particle size distribution that allows for proper interlocking during compaction
- Metallic aluminum content sufficient for briquette cohesion (minimum 5% for black dross)
Processing Considerations
Unsuitable Materials
- Very wet sludge or oily residues that interfere with compaction
- Materials with excessive chloride contamination causing corrosion
- Large metal chunks or non-compressible debris that damage dies
- Highly contaminated dross with organic materials that create fumes
- Mixtures with other non-ferrous metals that alter compaction characteristics
The ideal materials are aluminum dross (white or black), skimmings, fines, and clean aluminum scrap—all with controlled moisture, minimal impurities, and sufficient metallic content to ensure stable, dense briquettes. These presses provide significant value in foundries and recycling plants by reducing storage space, minimizing waste, and simplifying transportation for aluminum recovery.
