Ore sorting is a physical separation technique that utilizes external sensors to analyze individual particles based on specific properties like color, luster, density, and reflectivity. Optical and electrical sensors detect these characteristics to quickly distinguish valuable ore from waste rock (HPY Sorting, n.d.).
This process can be applied for various critical purposes, including pre-concentration (to upgrade the material before milling), waste rejection (to reduce the volume of material sent for costly downstream processing), and diverting different ore types for optimized, dedicated treatment circuits.
Although ore sorting has been used since the 1970s, recent advancements leveraging AI, deep learning, and machine vision have dramatically improved its precision and flexibility. Modern systems can adapt in real-time to changes in ore properties, making pre-concentration much more efficient. By removing waste early, this technology significantly reduces energy use, water consumption, and overall processing costs (Sepro, 2019).
Imagine rejecting 30% of waste rock before it even hits the mill! What is ore sorting, and how is this sensor-based technology fundamentally changing mining profitability and sustainability? Share your insights!
Reference:
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Sepro. (2019, July 18). Ore Sorting Strategies In Mineral Processing. Sepro Mineral Systems. https://www.seprosystems.com/ore-sorting-vs-dense-medium-separation-in-mineral-processing/
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What is ore sorting—HPY Sorting. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://hpysorting.com/what-is-ore-sorting
