Extended-height magnetic matrices to increase ultra - fine mineral particle recovery

Abstract In response to the challenge of recovering particles smaller than -0.45 microns in Mineral Processing, GAUSTEC® has significantly enhanced the Wet High Intensity Magnetic Separation (WHIMS) technology. By Extending the Height of the Magnetic Grooved Plate Matrix, a core component of Jones Magnetic Separator Technology, GAUSTEC® has raised the industry standards. For over fifty years, since the installation of the first Jones separator at VALE Cauê Mine in 1972, the standard matrix height has remained at 220 mm. The worldwide demand to reduce tailings prompted a team of researchers to look for new solutions to improve slimes recovery. After trying traditional methods and process variables it was decided to extend the matrices heights to increase the processing time inside the magnetic field. Evaluating four matrix heights, researchers found that doubling the standard height (2H) provided outstanding results. The 2H matrix recovered 2.5 times more mass from slimes compared to the standard 1H matrix height, in this study.