Cemex UK sets new record
Cemex UK’s South Ferriby cement plant, in North Lincolnshire, has set a new record by replacing 100% of the fuel used to heat its cement kiln with fuels made from wastes.
South Ferriby’s achievement is believed to be a new record in the UK, where substitute fuels now represent 35% of all kiln fuels burned in cement kilns. The plant now also leads the way in Europe and within Cemex’s global network of more than 60 cement plants worldwide.
In addition, emissions such as oxides of nitrogen and sulphur have declined by 20% and 43%, respectively, since alternative fuels were introduced in 2002.
South Ferriby plant director Philip Baynes-Clarke explained: ‘The use of alternative fuels at South Ferriby is key to improving the environmental performance of cement making. It helps to reduce our carbon footprint and it also drives down other key emissions.
‘Our 100% record was set over a three-day period in March, with the kiln remaining stable and producing good-quality cement clinker. The challenge is now to exceed our 90% weekly average record and use 100% over a more sustained period.’
The alternative fuels used at South Ferriby are Secondary Liquid Fuels (SLFs) made from industrial liquid wastes that cannot be recycled, such as paint, thinners, inks and varnishes, and Climafuel, which is made from household residual and commercial waste that would otherwise go to landfill.
The Climafuel used at South Ferriby is sourced from local suppliers.
Published under Cement News
