The Cement-making Process

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The story of cement begins at the quarry. There, Lafarge employees quarry limestone, which is crushed and transported by conveyor system. The raw materials are mixed and heated to over 2600°F in the kiln, becoming a “clinker.” When the clinker emerges from the kiln, it is cooled, mixed with gypsum and ground into a fine powder known as portland cement.

The cement is then pumped into storage silos for shipping and distribution. The plant loads bulk cement into trucks and railcars to be shipped throughout the region. Tulsa employees also bag cement for distribution.

Cement is a vital resource for the economy of Oklahoma. Lafarge products are found virtually everywhere, from streets and bridges, to parking structures and lasting landmarks. Lafarge Cement has been used locally in projects including the BOK Center in Tulsa.