Ultra-fine talc production: which mill is preferred to produce talcum powder of very fine particle size?

Introduction / Context:
Talc is a very soft mineral but achieving cosmetic- or filler-grade fineness requires narrow top-size control well below 20–30 micrometres. Mill selection balances fineness, shape, and contamination risk.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target: talcum powder with very fine size distribution.
• Purity and minimal contamination are important.

Concept / Approach:
Jet mills (fluid energy mills) generate ultra-fine particles through high-velocity particle–particle collisions with minimal metal contact. They deliver steep size cuts when combined with internal or external classifiers and avoid iron contamination that can be problematic in fillers and cosmetics.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Compare mills: ball/pin/hammer vs. jet.For sub-20 μm with tight top size and cleanliness → choose jet mill.Select “jet mill.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Industrial talc plants frequently use jet milling for highest grades; ball mills can serve coarser fillers but struggle to meet ultra-fine specs economically without advanced classification.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Ball/pin/hammer mills achieve coarser or broader distributions and have higher media/wear contamination risks.

Common Pitfalls:
Attempting extreme fineness in ball mills without adequate classification loops, leading to overgrinding energy penalties.

Final Answer:
jet mill