Mineral Processing Design and Operations

An Introduction

Ashok Gupta, Denis S. Yan

• Publisher: Elsevier
• Year: 2016
• ISBN:
  9780444635921
• Edition: 2
• Topic: Physical Sciences
• Subtopic: Mineralogy

Mineral Processing Design and Operations: An Introduction, Second Edition, helps further understanding of the various methods commonly used in mineral beneficiation and concentration processes. Application of theory to practice is explained at each stage, helping operators understand associated implications in each unit process. Covers the theory and formulae for unit capacities and power requirements to help the designer develop the necessary equipment and flow-sheets to economically attain maximum yield and grade.

This second edition describes theories and practices of design and operation of apparatus and equipment, including an additional chapter on magnetic, electrostatic, and conductivity modes of mineral separation. Basics of process controls for efficient and economic modes of separation are introduced.

• Outlines the theory and practice in the design of flow sheets and operation of an integrated mineral processing plant
• Introduces the basic magnetism, electrostatic, conductivity, and dielectrophoresis properties of minerals and related separation techniques
• Describes automation in mineral processing plants allowing maximum yields and consistent high concentrate grades
• Outlines problems and offers solutions in the form of various examples

Chapter 1

Mineral Sampling

Abstract

Proper sampling of tectonic deposits of minerals is essential to assess its economic viability of extraction. The sampling techniques used to attain this objective are described in this chapter for varying conditions such as incremental and continuous analysis for particles of different sizes, shapes, densities and for precious metals. Statistical approaches of analytical data are given to interpret results as accurately as possible.

Keywords

Random sampling

incremental sampling

continuous sampling

statistical sampling by Gy’s method

1.1. Introduction

A processing plant costs many millions of dollars to build and operate. The success of this expenditure relies on the assays of a few small samples. Decisions affecting millions of dollars are made on the basis of a small fraction of the bulk of the ore body. It is therefore very important that this small fraction is as representative as possible of the bulk material. Special care needs to be taken in any sampling regime, and a considerable effort in statistical analysis and sampling theory has gone into quantifying the procedures and precautions to be taken.

The final sampling regime adopted is, however, a compromise between what theory tells us should be done and the cost and difficulty in achieving this in practice.

1.2. Statistical Terminology

A measurement is considered to be accurate if the difference between the measured value and the true value falls within an acceptable margin. In most cases, however, the true value of the assay is unknown, so the confidence we have in the accuracy of the measured value is also unknown. We have to rely on statistical theory to minimise the systematic errors to increase our confidence in the measured value.

Checks can be put in place to differenti...