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Classification in Mineral Processing Presentation

Mineral Processing LEcture

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Mining Review
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18 views

Classification in Mineral Processing Presentation

Mineral Processing LEcture

Uploaded by

Mining Review
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Classification in Mineral

Processing
Understanding Principles, Processes,
and Equipment
Introduction to Classification
• Classification is the process of separating mixtures of minerals into two or more
products based on the velocity with which particles fall through a fluid medium.
This presentation will cover wet classification used in mineral processing.
Principles of Classification
• Classification is governed by the balance of forces acting on particles in a fluid
medium. These forces include gravitational, centrifugal, and drag forces. The result
is the separation of fine and coarse particles into different products.
Free Settling
• Free settling occurs when particles sink in a fluid under the influence of gravity,
with minimal interaction between particles. The terminal velocity of a particle can
be calculated using Stokes’ law or Newton’s law, depending on the particle size and
Reynolds number.
Hindered Settling
• Hindered settling occurs when particle-particle interactions become significant,
typically at higher concentrations of solids in the pulp. The settling velocity is
reduced due to increased fluid viscosity and particle interactions.
Effect of Density on Separation
Efficiency
• The terminal velocity of particles depends on both their size and density. Particles
of the same size but different densities will settle at different rates. The
classification process is affected by the density differences between particles.
Types of Classifiers
• Classifiers can be broadly categorized into gravitational and centrifugal types.
Gravitational classifiers rely on gravity and are less efficient at small particle sizes.
Centrifugal classifiers use centrifugal force and are widely used in modern mineral
processing plants.
Gravitational Classifiers
• Gravitational classifiers use the force of gravity to separate particles based on size
and density. These classifiers are less efficient for particles smaller than 70 μm and
are mostly used in older plants.
Centrifugal Classifiers
• Centrifugal classifiers use the force generated by a rotating medium to separate
particles. These classifiers are more efficient and are preferred for fine particle
classification.
Effect of Classifier Operation on
Grinding Circuit Behavior
• Classifiers are critical in closed-circuit grinding operations. They help in improving
grinding efficiency by removing fine particles, thus preventing overgrinding and
ensuring optimal downstream separation processes.
Interactive Questions
• 1. What is the principle behind classification in mineral processing?
• 2. How does the density of a particle affect its terminal velocity?
• 3. Compare and contrast gravitational and centrifugal classifiers.
• 4. Explain the effect of classifier performance on grinding circuit efficiency.
Summary and Review
• In summary, classification in mineral processing is a critical process that separates
particles based on size and density. Understanding the principles, types of
classifiers, and their impact on grinding circuits is essential for optimizing mineral
processing operations.

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