Overview:
Magnetic separation is a beneficiation method based on the differences in magnetic properties of minerals. By subjecting materials to magnetic fields, forces such as gravity, centrifugal force, friction, and medium resistance are applied, resulting in the separation of materials. This method is primarily employed for sorting ferrous metal ores (iron, manganese, chromium) and non-ferrous or rare metals.
Application:
Widely used in the sorting of ferrous and non-ferrous metal ores, magnetic separation is particularly common in new iron ore dressing plants due to its high separation efficiency, processing capacity, and recovery rates.
Working Principle:
- Materials to be separated are subjected to various forces, including magnetic force, gravity, centrifugal force, friction, and medium resistance, within the sorting space of the magnetic separator.
- The magnetic field around the magnetic materials plays a crucial role, and it can be categorized into uniform and non-uniform magnetic fields.
- Magnetic particles experience a force proportional to the strength and gradient of the magnetic field.
- In a uniform magnetic field, mineral particles align their long axis parallel to the magnetic field direction.
- In a non-uniform magnetic field, mineral particles experience both torque and magnetic force, leading to rotation and movement toward the direction of increasing magnetic field gradient.
- Mineral particles with different magnetic properties are separated, as they are either rotated or moved to the magnet surface.
Selection Method:
Magnetic selection relies on the differences in permeability between minerals, achieving separation in a non-uniform magnetic field.
Advantages:
- Good separation efficiency
- High processing capacity
- High recovery rate
Conclusion:
Magnetic separation is a versatile and widely utilized method in the field of ore beneficiation, particularly in the extraction of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. Its effectiveness in new iron ore dressing plants highlights its relevance and application in modern mineral processing.