Introduction
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is a critical white pigment used extensively in the paint, coatings, ink, plastic, and chemical industries. Known for its brightness, opacity, and chemical stability, TiO₂ must undergo fine grinding and uniform dispersion to ensure optimal performance in end products. Among various grinding technologies, the bead mill has proven to be the most effective solution for wet grinding titanium dioxide in high-volume industrial applications.
Challenges in Titanium Dioxide Grinding
Grinding TiO₂ presents specific challenges:
- Agglomeration: TiO₂ particles tend to cluster, making uniform dispersion difficult.
- High Viscosity: Slurries often contain high solid content, increasing mechanical resistance.
- Thermal Sensitivity: Excessive heat during grinding can affect pigment properties.
- Target Particle Size: Achieving narrow particle size distribution (e.g., D50 below 1 micron) is essential for gloss and coverage.
Traditional milling methods struggle to meet these requirements, making bead mills the preferred choice for modern manufacturers.
Why Use a Bead Mill for TiO₂?
Bead mills, also known as sand mills, offer significant advantages for TiO₂ dispersion:
- Superior Fineness: Achieves nano to submicron particle sizes.
- Efficient Dispersion: High-energy shear breaks down agglomerates effectively.
- Thermal Management: Jacketed chambers maintain stable temperatures during operation.
- Scalability: Suitable for both lab-scale development and large-scale factory production.
- Versatility: Adaptable for water-based or solvent-based TiO₂ systems.
These benefits make bead mills ideal for producing high-performance pigments in demanding environments.
Applications in Paint, Coating & Chemical Factories
Titanium dioxide is a universal pigment in multiple product formulations. Post-grinding, TiO₂ is used in:
- Architectural & Industrial Paints
- Automotive Coatings
- Water-based & Solvent-based Inks
- Resin and Polymer Additives
- Chemical and Construction Materials
Proper dispersion enhances whiteness, opacity, and UV resistance, directly influencing product quality and durability.
Recommended Bead Mill Configuration for TiO₂
When grinding titanium dioxide, a well-configured bead mill is essential. Key features include:
- Rotor Design: Pin-type or turbo-type rotors for intensive shear.
- Grinding Chamber Material: Wear-resistant ceramics (e.g., zirconia) to avoid contamination.
- Cooling System: Double-jacket design for precise temperature control.
- Bead Media: Zirconia beads sized 0.3–0.8 mm for optimal energy transfer.
- Speed & Flow Adjustability: Fine-tuned parameters for different formulations.
Z-MIXER offers a full range of bead mills tailored for TiO₂ grinding, ensuring both performance and process stability.
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Real-World Case Study
A Southeast Asian coatings factory upgraded their production line with Z-MIXER bead mills to process high-solid TiO₂ slurries. Results included:
- 35% reduction in average particle size
- 20% increase in batch throughput
- 15% energy savings
- Significantly improved gloss and coverage in final coatings
The client reported fewer clogging issues, easier cleaning, and more consistent batch quality.
Conclusion
Titanium dioxide is a cornerstone pigment in modern manufacturing. To meet high standards in whiteness, coverage, and dispersion, bead mills offer a technically and economically superior grinding solution.
At Z-MIXER, we specialize in custom-designed bead mills for TiO₂ and other pigments. Whether you produce paint, ink, or chemical additives, our grinding systems will help you optimize quality and efficiency.
Contact us today:
📧 Email: viki@z-mixer.com
📱 WhatsApp: +86 19851090655
🌐 Website: https://www.z-mixer.com