Cement and Clinker
Cement and clinker are two critical materials that form the foundation of the construction and building industry. From reinforced concrete structures to infrastructure projects, cement is an indispensable binder for constructing strong and lasting structures in the modern world. Clinker, on the other hand, is the essential intermediate product in cement production and is vital for producing high-quality cement.
At Timah Group, we specialize in supplying these two products, offering B2B clients high quality, competitive prices, and reliable service.
This comprehensive product introduction page details what cement and clinker are, types of cement, the production process, quality standards, areas of application, and the advantages offered by Timah Group. We also address frequently sought topics such as cement prices, clinker exports, and Portland cement to provide all the information you need in one place.
What is Cement?
Cement is a fine powder material that hardens and gains binding properties when mixed with water. The most commonly used type, Portland cement, is produced by grinding clinker, which is obtained by heating limestone and clay at high temperatures.
When mixed with aggregates (sand, gravel, crushed stone, etc.) and water, cement forms concrete — the second most consumed material in the world after water. Cement is vital in construction for its high compressive strength, durability in different environments, and long lifespan.
It is also used in mortar production and various stabilization works. Depending on the project’s needs, cement can be supplied in bulk or in 50 kg bags. Timah Group offers both delivery options.
What is Clinker?
Clinker is the intermediate product formed by heating limestone, clay, and other materials at 1400–1450°C during cement production. During this process, the material sinters and forms gray-colored nodules.
After cooling, clinker is ground with gypsum to produce cement. The chemical structure of clinker directly affects the strength and quality of the cement.
Clinker is not used directly by end-users but is a crucial raw material for cement production. Countries like Turkey generate significant revenue through clinker exports.
Timah Group reliably supplies high-quality clinker to both domestic and international clients.
Cement and Clinker Production Process
Cement production involves three main stages: raw material preparation, clinker production, and grinding.
First, limestone, clay, and other raw materials are mixed and ground into a fine powder. This powder is then heated in rotary kilns at around 1450°C to form clinker. After cooling, the clinker is ground with a small amount of gypsum to produce ready-to-use cement.
Additional materials can be added during grinding to produce different types of cement.
Timah Group works with integrated plants and grinding facilities to provide customers with high-quality cement produced through sustainable and efficient methods.
Types and Classes of Cement
Cements are classified based on their clinker content and added materials, according to the TS EN 197-1 standard. The main types are:
- Portland Cement (CEM I): Made from pure clinker, offering high strength, suitable for general construction.
- Portland Composite Cement (CEM II): Contains pozzolan, slag, or limestone; offers durability and cost benefits.
- Blast Furnace Slag Cement (CEM III): Ideal for large pours and sulfate-exposed environments.
- Pozzolanic Cement (CEM IV): Enhances long-term strength and impermeability; eco-friendly.
- Composite Cement (CEM V): Combines different additives for high performance in special projects.
- White Cement: Preferred for aesthetic projects, with similar strength to standard Portland cement.
- Sulfate-Resistant Cement: Increases durability in aggressive environments.
Timah Group supplies all these cement types according to TS EN 197-1 standards, ensuring high quality and tailored solutions for different project needs.
Uses of Cement and Clinker
Cement has a wide range of applications in the construction sector, including:
- Reinforced Concrete Structures: Used as a binder in residential, commercial, industrial buildings, and infrastructure projects (bridges, tunnels, etc.).
- Precast Elements: Essential for producing factory-made components like pipes, paving stones, curbs, and precast panels.
- Infrastructure and Transportation Projects: Used in dams, hydroelectric plants, ports, airports, highways, and bridges where high durability is required.
- Mortar and Plaster Applications: Used in bricklaying mortars, wall plasters, and tile adhesives, providing strong adhesion and surface protection.
- Special Applications: Used for soil stabilization, hazardous waste solidification, and specialized cement formulations for drilling operations.
Clinker, on the other hand, is mainly used as an intermediate product for cement production. It is supplied to grinding plants or exported to countries without cement production facilities.
In rare cases, due to its durable structure, clinker may also be used as a base or filling material. However, its primary value lies in its chemical composition and reactivity essential for producing high-quality cement.
Cement Industry and Clinker Export in Turkey
Turkey, with an annual production capacity of around 100 million tons, is the largest cement producer in Europe and ranks among the top countries globally.
Thanks to its high production capacity, high-quality clinker sources, strategic geographic location, and competitive pricing, Turkey is a strong player in the international market.
Approximately 10–20% of the cement produced in Turkey is exported annually, with a significant recent rise in clinker exports. Many countries prefer importing clinker to grind it locally instead of purchasing finished cement.
With favorable energy costs and abundant raw materials, Turkey holds a strong position in the global clinker trade.
Timah Group’s Competitive Advantages
Timah Group offers significant advantages in cement and clinker supply through high quality, a wide product range, strong logistics capabilities, and industry-specific consultancy services.
- High Quality: All our products comply with TSE, EN, and ASTM standards, with rigorous quality control processes.
- Wide Product Range: We provide various types of cement and high-quality clinker tailored to different project needs.
- Advanced Logistics: We are experts in storage, customs, and transportation, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
- Market Knowledge: We offer technical consultancy and up-to-date market insights to support our customers.
- Reliability: We prioritize customer satisfaction and focus on building long-term partnerships.
Working with Timah Group means gaining not just a supplier, but an expert partner who adds value to your projects.
For affordable, high-quality, and sustainable cement and clinker supply, contact us today!