Common Types of Gravity Separators (Equipment).

Gravity separators, also known as density separators, are machines that use the force of gravity to separate materials based on their density. 

Here are some common types of gravity separators: 

1. Jigging gravity separator

Jig gravity separator separate particles based on density difference and pulsating water flow. Heavier particles sink to the bottom more quickly, while lighter particles rise to the top. A jig is a gravity separation device consisting of a container or trough filled with a layer of granules. The oscillating action creates a pulsating water flow that stratifies the particles according to their density.

1. Shaker gravity separator

A shaker consists of a flat, inclined surface, usually rectangular, mounted on a support structure. The table generates reciprocating motion through horizontal shaking or vibration. This shaking action stratifies the particles according to density and size, separating heavier mineral particles from lighter host rock material.

1. Spiral chute gravity separator

Spiral chute gravity separation is a gravity concentration method that uses a spiral chute for separation. Spiral chute is an equipment commonly used to separate particles according to their density differences. This method is usually used to process fine-grained ores, especially for ores containing fine minerals, and has a better separation effect.

1. Dense medium separator

In dense media separation, a dense medium (usually a fine-grained ferrosilicate or magnetite suspension) is used to form an intermediate density fluid. Minerals with a higher density will sink in this heavy medium, while minerals with a lower density will float. This technology is widely used in the methods of pre-selection, upgrading of ore grade and recovery of valuable minerals from different ore deposits(4 Common Gravity Separation Methods – Xinhai, n.d.).

When it comes to unlocking valuable minerals, sometimes it’s all about density! Gravity separators come in various ingenious forms, each designed to make the heaviest materials fall into place. What’s your go-to gravity separation equipment, and why?

Reference:

4 Common Gravity Separation Methods—Xinhai. (n.d.). Retrieved June 4, 2025, from https://www.xinhaimining.com/newo/4-common-gravity-separation-methods.html