Comminution

Comminution is one of the fundamental industrial processes requiring large expenditures on heavy equipment, energy, operation and maintenance. Correct crushing and grinding are the key to successful mineral processing. Therefore, size reduction of a diverse range of materials is among the top research areas of GTK Mineral Processing. Our expertise in laboratory and pilot scale comminution, backed up by our recognized skills in process mineralogy and versatile equipment, are at your service to face various kinds of comminution challenges. Recently, optimization of the comminution chain, from crushing up to fine grinding, has been of particular concern. As a result, we can now offer a comprehensive anal-

ysis of the grinding characteristics of virtually any material, starting from Work Index determinations in the laboratory, through to establishing optimum grinding methods and circuit configurations. Besides conventional methods, i.e. rod and ball mill grinding, research is focused on the utilization of autogenous/semiautogenous grinding and high pressure roller milling, which use less energy and which may, in some applications, be metallurgically preferable. Bench Scale Size Reduction Basic characterization of grindability includes the Work Index determination, using the Mergan mill, together with grain size and liberation analyses. The effects of grinding pa-

rameters such as slurry density, feed rate and mill filling are studied in a continuous classifying laboratory mill. Particle size distributions are normally determined by screening, and image analysis of each fraction makes it possible to evaluate mineral liberation in different size classes. For autogenous grinding in particular, it is important to obtain information on the behaviour of the coarse fractions in the grinding circuit. To test the suitability of a material for autogenous grinding, a series of different dropping, tumbling and grinding tests have been developed. By evaluating the Work Index of the material in question against our extensive reference database, it is also possible to predict the grinding characteristics of the material in autogenous grinding. Pilot Plant Research and Production On pilot scale, the results of a laboratory study are confirmed in a continuous process. As a part of the feasibility study or in the design of a new comminution circuit, a properly designed and conducted grinding test programme on pilot scale offers valuable information for economic and scale-up calculations. Our grinding facilities enable test runs with 0.5 - 5 tph capacity, which means that the results are reliable enough for extrapolation to plant scale. Additional testing with a combination process allow evaluation of the effects of different grinding methods on subsequent beneficiation processes. On the basis of a pilot test run, we can provide you with comprehensive data on your materials comminution characteristics together with an optimum grinding circuit flowsheet. In addition to research-oriented applications, our services also include productiontype crushing, grinding and classification of materials for our clients. Crushing and screening of 3,000 tons of coal may be presented as a descriptive example. The throughput capacity range in the crushing section may vary from 10 up to 50 tph.

Mineral Processing For more information please contact: Markku Klemetti, M.Sc. (Chem.) Senior Research Scientist Tel: +358 20 550 5838 Mobile: +358 50 308 5674 e-mail: markku.klemetti@gtk.fi Pekka Mrsky, M.Sc. (Min.Proc.) Senior Research Scientist Tel: +358 20 550 5830 Mobile: +358 50 592 6115 e-mail: pekka.morsky@gtk.fi Tapio Knuutinen, M.Sc. (Chem.Eng.) Research Scientist Tel: +358 20 550 5831 Mobile: +358 50 308 5675 e-mail: tapio.knuutinen@gtk.fi