Magnetic Separation Performance Enhancement via CVBD Conditioning
The CVBD – Micro/Nano Vacuum Bubbles Device promotes significant efficiency gains in magnetic separation processes. Similarly to its effect in flotation, prior exposure of the slurry to CVBD reduces electrostatic charges present on particle surfaces.
Magnetic separation is effective in distinguishing magnetic from non-magnetic particles; however, it does not prevent particles aggregated by electrostatic forces, as well as ultrafines and clay particles not properly deslimed, from being entrained together with the magnetic fraction into the concentrate.
The effectiveness of CVBD in improving magnetic concentration depends on gangue characteristics, the degree of prior desliming, and the magnetic susceptibility of the target mineral. Pilot-scale tests comparing operations with and without CVBD conditioning prior to magnetic separation demonstrated increases of up to 4.5-fold in the grade of the target magnetic mineral.
CVBD Impact on Magnetic and Non-Magnetic Fractions
Image (A) shows the material in its as-received condition, prior to sieving for magnetic separation. The presence of a significant amount of fine particles mixed with the material can be observed.
After sieving, the material was repulped with water, exposed to CVBD and subsequently subjected to magnetic separation. Image (B) shows the resulting magnetic concentrate, while Image (C) presents the non-magnetic tailings.
When compared to the same material processed under identical operating conditions but without prior exposure to CVBD, chemical analysis indicated that prior CVBD exposure results in up to a 4.5-fold increase in magnetic content recovery.
Image (A)
Tailing before CVBD as-received conditions
Image (B)
Magnetic Concentrate with CVBD Assistance
Image (C)
Non Magnetic Tailing with CVBD Assistance