Reduction of Mineral Overgrinding in Sulfide Ore Dressing Technology

Abstract

The paper briefly considers the specifics of the material composition of sulfide ores and reflects the causes of losses in dressing. The basic dressing principles are given. The main ways to reduce ore overgrinding are briefly specified and described. The concept of flotoclassification and its relevance in closed-circuit grinding is described. The flowsheets of grinding and flotoclassification of sulfide ores are substantiated. Possible options of flotoclassification flow sheets in closed-circuit grinding are described. The use of flotoclassification in closed-circuit grinding of the hydrocyclone overflow allows obtaining an on-spec concentrate in the overflow of the tapered launder. Flotoclassification in closed-circuit grinding under laboratory conditions has been simulated. The experiment is described in detail. The simulation scheme, the finished product balance, and the qualitative and quantitative diagram of flotoclassification in closed-circuit grinding are given. The experimental results show the efficiency of the proposed way of reducing mineral overgrinding in the sulfide ore dressing technology.