Selectivity evaluation for high gradient magnetic separation performance based on static buildup model

Abstract

Selectivity is an important indicator for the assessment of high gradient magnetic separation (HGMS) performance, but so far there were no theoretical methods available for such purpose. In this paper, the static buildup model (SBM) was improved and a modified SBM was established to solve this problem. Reported for the first time, the effect of both magnetic capture and mechanical entrainment were taken into consideration, and selectivity change during the whole accumulation process was intuitively demonstrated. The results implied that mechanical entrainment was weak in the earlier stage of accumulation but was quite serious in the later period, making selectivity decrease rapidly when particle accumulation was approaching saturation. Experimental results testified the model's ability of predicting a relatively accurate mass and grade of concentrate once characteristics of the feed were given, which will provide important guidance for HGMS research and deserves further investigation for refinement