Pilot Plant studies on beneficiation of Limestone samples from Nandini Mines of Bhilai Steel Plant, Hindustan Steel Ltd.

Abstract

Four limestone samples, viz., (1) Run-of –mine sample (2) -1 “ (25.4 mm) fines from the old dumps, (3)Currently produced fines and (4) Open hearth flux grade limestone, each weighing 100 tonnes were received from the Nandini Mines of Bhilai Steel Plant, Hindustan Steel Ltd. The first three samples were for beneficiation studies to determine the best method for removal of clayey matter and ferruginous murrum balls present in limestone was not required to be investigated. Wet screening or scrubbing of the three samples could eliminate in the form of slime, most of the clay present. The test results indicated that the +1/2” (+12.7 mm) washed lump fractions from the three samples, were of improved quality, low in soluble contents. The coarse fractions were also found to be almost free from ferruginous murrum balls. The -1/2” fractions were of poorer grades due to the presence of murrum balls, which were found to get concentrated in this fraction and being hard , could not be get not be eliminated by scrubbing and wet screening. However, it was found that most of the murrum balls could be eliminated by jigging.