Definition
The process of turning raw ore into marketable, useable minerals is a crucial aspect of the mining industry. A range of methods are used in this process to extract precious minerals from the ore and purify them into a form that may be used. Professionals in the mining sector must comprehend the phases of mineral processing since each one is critical to optimising extraction effectiveness and product quality. We shall examine the four phases of mineral processing in this post.
Stage 1: Comminution (Crushing and Grinding)
Large ore fragments are broken down into smaller bits during the first stage of mineral processing, known as comminution. In order to increase the ore’s surface area and facilitate the extraction of the important minerals in later stages, this stage is essential.
Stage 2: Separation
In the mineral processing process, separation is the step when precious minerals are separated from the trash (gangue). Depending on the characteristics of the ore and the minerals being extracted, different procedures are used to accomplish this.
Stage 3: Concentration
To improve their purity and worth, the minerals still require concentration after being extracted from the gangue. The process of raising the ore’s percentage of precious minerals is called concentration.
Stage 4: Dewatering
The last step in mineral processing is dewatering, which involves drying the treated ore to eliminate extra water. This is necessary to guarantee the stability of the finished product and to facilitate storage and transportation.
According to you, what is the importance of dewatering in mineral processing?
