A shaker table, also known as a gold shaking table or mining shaker table, is a gravity separation device used in gold beneficiation to separate heavy minerals (like gold) from lighter gangue materials based on their specific gravity differences. It is widely used in small-scale and artisanal gold mining operations due to its efficiency and simplicity.
How a Shaker Table Works for Gold Beneficiation
1. Feed Preparation
– Crushed and ground ore slurry (mixed with water) is fed onto the table.
– The feed should be properly classified (usually <1mm) for optimal separation.
2. Deck Motion
– The table deck oscillates horizontally (back-and-forth motion) while water flows across it.
– This motion helps stratify particles based on density.
3. Particle Separation
– Heavy particles (gold, sulfides, etc.) settle into grooves ("riffles") and move toward the higher side of the table.
– Lighter particles (silicates, clays, etc.) are washed away by flowing water.
4. Concentrate Collection
– Gold concentrates are collected at the discharge end (higher side).
– Tailings (waste material) flow off the lower side.
Advantages of Using a Shaker Table for Gold Beneficiation
✔ High recovery rates for fine gold particles (down to ~50 microns).
✔ Low operating cost compared to chemical methods like cyanidation.
✔ Environmentally friendly—no chemicals required.
✔ Adjustable settings (tilt, water flow, stroke length) for different ore types.
Common Types of Shaker Tables
1. Wilfley Table – Traditional design with diagonal riffles.
2. Deister Concentrator – Uses an eccentric head motion.
3. RP-4 / Gemini Table – Popular for small-scale miners.
4. Micron Mill Wave Table – Efficient for fine gold recovery.
Key Considerations When Using a Shaker Table
– Feed size: Best for fine to medium-sized particles (<2mm).
– Water flow rate: Must be optimized to prevent loss of gold.
– Deck angle & stroke speed: Adjustable based on ore characteristics.
– Pre-concentration: May require prior classification or jigging for better efficiency.
Conclusion
A shaker table is an excellent
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