How are rutile and ilmenite deposits mined?

Rutile and ilmenite deposits are typically mined using open-pit methods. Because these minerals are often found in alluvial and beach placer deposits, mining operations frequently utilize a floating dredge equipped with a suction bucket wheel to collect the mineral-rich sand.123

Once the material is collected, it undergoes a concentration process to remove unwanted waste:

• Screening: The sand is passed through screens known as trommels to remove debris and larger unwanted materials.1
• Gravity Separation: The minerals are separated from waste using wet spiral concentrators.1
• Refining: The resulting concentrates are further processed through a complex series of electrostatic, magnetic, and gravity-based equipment to isolate the specific minerals.1

These deposits are significant global sources of titanium, with major mining activity occurring in countries such as Australia, India, and South Africa.423