Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an installation for making cement clinker from a convenient raw material. The raw material is first partially decarbonated, then baked in a kiln where the decarbonation is completed, whereafter the material is clinkerized in the baking zone of the kiln wherein the volatile substances are removed from the material and at least a major part of the volatile substances are removed in the combustion gases. At least a portion of the combustion gases are diverted from the kiln at a location upstream of the baking zone, and the diverted gases are quenched by injecting cool powderous or granular material into the flow of said gases.