The basics of grinding circuit optimisation

A Giblett and B Putland

14^thAusIMM Mill Operators’ Conference, 29-31 August 2018, Brisbane, Australia

ABSTRACT

This paper provides a simple guiding framework for grinding circuit optimisation, focussing on common

themes in past optimisation success stories, the conditions for success and techniques that can be

employed to identify and define opportunities. Many significant grinding circuit improvements have been

reported for operating plants, based on recurring themes such as the optimisation of mill feed size, mill liner

design, process control, critical size, grinding media and classification. The paper condenses these

experiences into a set of simple questions for the operator to ask, and provides guidance towards identifying

and achieving the optimisation goals.

AUTHOR DETAILS

A Giblett (1) and B Putland (2)

1. FAusIMM, Senior Technical Advisor – Mineral Processing, Newmont Mining Services, Subiaco WA, 6008. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

2. Principal Metallurgist Orway Mineral Consultants, Perth WA.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

CEEC acknowledges and thanks The Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy for organising the 14^thAusIMM Mill Operators’ Conference (MillOps 2018). 

Abstracts can be found at the MillOps 2018 website.