3458 XXXI International Mineral Processing Congress 2024 Proceedings/Washington, DC/Sep 29–Oct 3
the centrate actually has approximately 0.5% to 0.6% more
solids than indicated graphically below. This type of addi-
tional dissolved solid must be allowed for when making
final decisions.
RESULTS
Several comparisons were made using the data collected.
Below the data in graph form, each graph accompanied
by some interpretation. In some instances, a multiplier
has been added to one set of numbers to be able to mean-
ingfully compare these with base numbers of another set
of data.
Comparison of g-Force with the %Dryness of the
Solids Output of the Centrifuge
Most variation of g-force was trialed in the initial 50 sam-
ples. Interestingly, it would appear that even if the bowl
RPM of the centrifuge were either increased or be reduced
meaningfully (say by as much as 20% either way), we
can expect that the dryness of the solid cake will not be
impacted significantly. This is important as it permits using
the larger centrifuges at lower RPMs where RPM limita-
tions are dictated by physics affecting spinning very large
tonnages (Figure 13).
Comparison of g-Force with the %Remaining Solids
Still in the Centrate Output of the Centrifuge
Again, most variation of g-force was trialed in the initial
50 samples. Not much correlation appeared when creating
the variable g-forces. Then, it would appear that when the
bowl RPM of the centrifuge was maintained constant dur-
ing the second half of the pilot, the clarity of the centrate
was still averaging at 0.6% and well under 1% suspended
solid. Again, this is important as it permits using the larger
centrifuges at lower RPMs where RPM limitations are
dictated by physics affecting spinning very large tonnages
(Figure 14).
Comparison of Feed Rate with the %Remaining Solids
Still in the Centrate Output of the Centrifuge
In this example, a reasonable correlation was found between
the feed rate supplying the centrifuge, and the resulting sol-
ids content found in the produced centrate. Due to the fast-
settling nature of the feed, the pilot testing experienced a
consistent decrease in feed rate throughout the trials, as the
coarse silica settled in the ±40m feed line prior to reaching
the centrifuge, creating a constricted feed. Upward spikes
found in the feed rate are created when the operators would
engage the manual flush line to assist in flushing the feed
Figure 13.
Figure 14.
the centrate actually has approximately 0.5% to 0.6% more
solids than indicated graphically below. This type of addi-
tional dissolved solid must be allowed for when making
final decisions.
RESULTS
Several comparisons were made using the data collected.
Below the data in graph form, each graph accompanied
by some interpretation. In some instances, a multiplier
has been added to one set of numbers to be able to mean-
ingfully compare these with base numbers of another set
of data.
Comparison of g-Force with the %Dryness of the
Solids Output of the Centrifuge
Most variation of g-force was trialed in the initial 50 sam-
ples. Interestingly, it would appear that even if the bowl
RPM of the centrifuge were either increased or be reduced
meaningfully (say by as much as 20% either way), we
can expect that the dryness of the solid cake will not be
impacted significantly. This is important as it permits using
the larger centrifuges at lower RPMs where RPM limita-
tions are dictated by physics affecting spinning very large
tonnages (Figure 13).
Comparison of g-Force with the %Remaining Solids
Still in the Centrate Output of the Centrifuge
Again, most variation of g-force was trialed in the initial
50 samples. Not much correlation appeared when creating
the variable g-forces. Then, it would appear that when the
bowl RPM of the centrifuge was maintained constant dur-
ing the second half of the pilot, the clarity of the centrate
was still averaging at 0.6% and well under 1% suspended
solid. Again, this is important as it permits using the larger
centrifuges at lower RPMs where RPM limitations are
dictated by physics affecting spinning very large tonnages
(Figure 14).
Comparison of Feed Rate with the %Remaining Solids
Still in the Centrate Output of the Centrifuge
In this example, a reasonable correlation was found between
the feed rate supplying the centrifuge, and the resulting sol-
ids content found in the produced centrate. Due to the fast-
settling nature of the feed, the pilot testing experienced a
consistent decrease in feed rate throughout the trials, as the
coarse silica settled in the ±40m feed line prior to reaching
the centrifuge, creating a constricted feed. Upward spikes
found in the feed rate are created when the operators would
engage the manual flush line to assist in flushing the feed
Figure 13.
Figure 14.
