Performance and modeling studies of an MGS for graphite rejection in a lead concentrate.

The investigation is aimed at evaluating the performance of a Multi-Gravity Separator (MGS) in terms of rejecting graphite from a lead rougher flotation concentrate. The effect of change in different process variables on concentrate lead and graphite grades, lead recovery and graphite rejection values is studied. The results indicate that among the variables considered in this study such as drum rotation, inclination, wash water, amplitude and shake frequency, feed percent solids and feed flow rate, the change in drum revolutions influences the metallurgical results most. A suitable mathematical model for predicting the metallurgical performance under different design and operating conditions has been developed. The model included a set of equations relating the variables and the lead grade in the concentrate, lead grade and lead recovery, lead recovery and graphite rejection, and finally, the lead recovery and the graphite grade in the concentrate