The concentration of iron ore beneficiation washing involves processes to remove impurities (gangue minerals) and increase the iron content in the ore. The specific methods depend on the type of iron ore (hematite, magnetite, goethite, etc.) and its characteristics. Here’s an overview of key steps:
1. Crushing & Screening
– Ore is crushed and screened to a suitable size for further processing.
– Over-size particles may be re-crushed.
2. Washing & Scrubbing
– Removes clay, loose silica, and other fine contaminants.
– Uses water jets, scrubbers, or log washers to break down sticky materials.
3. Gravity Separation (For Coarse Particles)
– Spiral Concentrators: Separate heavier iron minerals from lighter gangue.
– Jigging Machines: Used for coarse-grained ores to concentrate hematite/magnetite.
4. Magnetic Separation (For Magnetite Ores)
– Low-intensity magnetic separators (LIMS) recover magnetite.
– High-intensity magnetic separators (HIMS) may be used for weakly magnetic ores.
5. Froth Flotation (For Fine Particles & Silica Removal)
– Collectors and depressants selectively separate iron oxides from silica/phosphorus.
6. Thickening & Filtration
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Concentrated slurry is dewatered using thickeners and vacuum filters.
7. Final Product (Concentrate)
– Typical iron content after beneficiation: 60–68% Fe (varies based on ore type).
Factors Affecting Concentration Efficiency:
– Ore type (magnetite is easier to upgrade than hematite).
– Liberation size of iron minerals from gangue.
– Presence of impurities like alumina, silica, phosphorus, or sulfur.
Would you like details on a specific beneficiation process or equipment?
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