Receding the entrainment of concomitant Ultrafines by MGS in Lead Concentrate of Rajpura - Dariba Concentrator

Abstract

Due to the fine dissemination and complex mineralogy the Rajpu ra-Dariba (RD) lead --inc ore poses special problems in concentration by corrventional froth flotation. In order to achieve the desired metallurgical results 'Multi Gravity Separator, a twin drum system, has recently been installed in the lead circuit of RD concentrator. Open and closed trial tests were conducted, without sacrificing the economic metal tt•ith substantial abatement of ultrafine card fine srliceuus and graphite matter in lead concentrate. The metallurgical alludes achieved are (i) over 85% -400 mesh fines are separated in the form of MGS tails whereas 53% -400 mesh are obtained in MGS concentrate from the feed(lead rougher concentrate) 77% -400 mesh with 52% Pb, I% Gr. C and 2.5% ISM in respective Wt. %distribution i.e., 47.3 and 3, (ii) tails are characterised br- >93% ultrafine of <20 microns particles encompass 21 % Pb, 8% Gr: C and 39% ISM with respective Wt. % distribution i.e., 32. 93, 83% in -400 mesh fr-action, resulting in effective rejection of Gr. C and ISM, (iii)conventional lead concentrate consists of 28% +400 mesh material only with all the assorted fines and ultrafines. Mine ralogically, it is established that composite bigger particles of sulphide gangue and graphite are the main contributor. for silica and graphite in MGS concentrate. Over 39% by vol. fines are alienated as MGS tails, in the form of free sulphide, gangue and graphite minerals. Installation of MGS in lead circuit, confirms the significant reduction of Gr:C and ISM in particular to high GMS_feed rnix in lead concentrate in comparison to lead concentrate by conventional route.