An operational model for a spiral classifier

Spirals are gravity concentrators used for the valorization of coal and heavy minerals. Coarse hematite iron ores in Canada are usually concentrated by spirals. Spirals classify the particles according to their size and specific gravity. Several mathematical models were proposed to simulate the operation of spirals using a balance between the various forces acting on particles. However few models provide a method to account for wash water addition and the opening of concentrate ports that are two strategic variables for the operation of spiral classifiers. This paper proposes a model to incorporate these variables in a simulation scheme and validates the model with pilot plant data. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.