Studies to assess the possibility of joint processing of various types of ores

Abstract

Joint processing of ores from different deposits at a single concentration plant would reduce respective capital costs for the construction of processing facilities at new deposits and, in a number of cases, would improve the processing efficiency. In order to enhance plant technical and economic performance when processing ores from several deposits, clear correlations must be established between the characteristics of the ores processed and respective mechanical and mineralogical properties of the raw materials must be taken into account. This paper assesses the possibility of joint processing of gold-bearing ores from three deposits in the Russian Federation. The assessment includes a comparison of the mineral composition, grades, physical and mechanical properties of the ores, an analysis of their processing potential when using gravity separation and flotation methods, as well as an overview of the prospects of hydrometallurgical processing of the products obtained. A mineral composition comparative study has shown that, despite the different gold grades in the original ore samples, all ores tested have responded similarly well to gravity separation. The physical and mechanical property data obtained for the ores from different deposits allows comparing the products of similar ore preparation cycles by ore source and assess their joint processing possibilities. It has been established that a single process may be used for the ores of all three deposits. This process shall include gravity separation in the grinding cycle to capture free gold and high-grade aggregates. Predictive calculations of joint processing indicators for the ores studied rendered an optimal weight percentage ratio of 20 : 40 : 40, which ensures the maximum gold recovery into marketable products.