Improved classification with the Cavex® DE hydrocyclone for mill circuit, coarse particle flotation, and tailings applications
J J Hanhiniemi1,2, J Heo3, N Weerasekara4, E Wang5, H Thanasekaran6 and A Kilcullen7
MAusIMM(CP), Director of Engineering, Weir Minerals, Brisbane Qld 4000. Email:
Adjunct Fellow, Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre, Brisbane Qld 4000. Email:
Process Engineer, Weir Minerals, Brisbane Qld 4000. Email:
Principal Engineer, Weir Minerals, Sydney NSW 2000. Email:
Process Engineer, Weir Minerals, Perth WA 6000. Email:
Flotation Process Engineer, Eriez Flotation Division, Melbourne Vic 3000. Email:
Weir Minerals Technical Centre Manager, Weir Minerals, Melbourne Vic 3000. Email:
*This paper was presented at the 2024 AusIMM Mill Operators Conference, held 21-23 October 2024 in Perth, Australia. To view the full paper select download file below.
ABSTRACT
The Cavex® DE hydrocyclone is presented, which incorporates two stages of classification in a single device with no intermediate pumping. Experimental and pilot test campaign results show the Cavex® DE hydrocyclone can replace a two hydrocyclone cluster system for coarse particle flotation (CPF) feed preparation. Comparisons of classification performance between the Cavex® DE hydrocyclone and a single stage hydrocyclone at a copper-gold operation in Queensland are presented. Advancements in modelling technique to support selection and optimisation of the Cavex® DE hydrocyclone is also presented, including new methods. Advanced techniques used in optimising the design are described, including multi-phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with Lagrangian and Eulerian approaches for coarse and fine particle tracing respectively. CFD modelling was first validated using industrial scale tests, and then used in optimising designs and selection methodology. Some details on example historic application of Cavex® DE technology, as well as new industrial scale test results and optimisation, is provided. This includes example tailings applications, and an application in a Chilean grinding circuit with CPF. The effective generation of separate slimes and sand streams with high recovery is presented, supporting the beneficial use of tailings in impoundment construction. The flexibility inherent in Cavex® DE technology, with its array of interchangeable options and configurations, provides the industry with an adaptable, high performing classifier in the various applications listed above. The test results and operational data presented show the benefits in performance available to the industry.