Calcined Gypsum
Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate (CaSO₄·½H₂O) · Plaster of Paris · Stucco · Gypsum Hemihydrate
Calcined gypsum is produced by heating gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate) to remove a portion of its chemically bound water. The resulting material, commonly known as stucco or plaster of Paris, is a fine powder used extensively in building products and industrial applications. Calcined gypsum is dry, dusty, and moderately abrasive. It readily rehydrates when exposed to moisture, which can lead to caking, buildup, and hardening in conveying equipment. KWS designs enclosed conveying systems that protect calcined gypsum from moisture while ensuring reliable material flow and dust control.
Overview
Chemical Formula
Common Names
Common Forms
Applications
- Wallboard and gypsum panel manufacturing
- Plaster, casting, and molding products
- Cement and construction materials
- Ceramics and specialty industrial products
- Medical and dental casting compounds
Material Characteristics
| Property | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Common Forms | Fine Powder, Processed Stucco |
| Bulk Density | 45-65 lb/ft³ (depends on fineness and aeration) |
| Flow Behavior | Free-flowing when dry; prone to caking and hardening when exposed to moisture |
| Abrasiveness | Moderate Causes gradual wear on conveying surfaces |
| Corrosiveness | Low Moisture can promote mild corrosion and material buildup |
| Dust Potential | Very High Fine powder requires dust containment and filtration |
Handling Challenges
- Dust generation during conveying and transfer operations
- Moisture absorption causing caking, hardening, and plugging
- Material buildup in hoppers, chutes, and screw conveyors
- Abrasive wear on equipment surfaces over time
- Maintaining product quality by preventing premature hydration
Summary
Calcined gypsum requires conveying and storage systems designed for dry, dusty, and moisture-sensitive powders. KWS Manufacturing provides engineered conveying solutions—including screw conveyors, drag conveyors, and feeders—with dust-tight construction and moisture-resistant designs to ensure consistent material flow and product quality.
With extensive experience handling gypsum-based materials and fine mineral powders, KWS ensures efficient, reliable, and low-maintenance operation for calcined gypsum handling systems.
