gravity concentration
Quick Summary
Gravity concentration is a method used in mineral processing to separate valuable minerals from waste rock (gangue) by exploiting differences in their densities. This process begins after mining, where the ore is finely crushed, sometimes to less than 0.1 millimeters in diameter.12
In gravity separation, the ore is mixed with water and subjected to forces that cause denser particles to settle while lighter ones float. Techniques include:
* Heavy-media separation: Uses a suspension of heavy minerals or technical products to simulate a fluid of higher density.
* Jigging: Employs pulsing water streams to stratify particles by density.
* Spirals and shaking tables: Utilize water flow and sometimes centrifugal or impact forces on inclined planes to separate particles based on density.1
Gravity concentration is particularly effective for heavy mineral sands and gold ores.1
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