Ultra fine chromite concentration using spiral concentrator

Abstract

The conventional chromite beneficiation circuit utilises spiral concentrator for recovering chromite fines and as its efficiency decreases with respect to the decrease in particle size. Pilot scale studies have been performed to understand the effect of different process parameters which influence the separation of ultra fine chromite fines from a typical plant tailing. The process parameters of spiral concentrator such as feed rate (m3/hr), feed pulp density (% solids by weight) and splitter position (cm) are considered for the study. Splitter position has major influence on both grade and recovery of the concentrate fraction of spiral concentrator. Maximum grade of 48.54% Cr2O3 can be achieved in the concentrate fraction of spiral concentrator with 20.41% Cr2O3 recovery. Performance of spiral concentrator at different combination of process parameters was analysed with 3D surface plots.