Separability of Calcined Magnesite Fines in Magnetic Field

Abstract

Magnesite belongs to the most significant minerals of Slovakia. According to various statistical reviews Slovakia is in 4th–6th place in the world and its share ranges 2.25–3.63 % of total world production (Reichl et al., 2015; Brown et al., 2015). Magnesite occurs in the belt from Lucenec to Kosice (south of central–east Slovakia) in the form of Fe-variety called breunnerite (commonly 10–30%, but also 8–17% or 5–50% FeCO 3 ), i.e. ferroan magnesite (Mg 0.9-0.7 Fe 0.1-0.3 )CO 3 usually containing about 9% FeO (Šalát and Ončáková, 1966). As to CaO/SiO 2 ratio (modulus C/S >2 or < 2), the both technological magnesite types, namely limy and silica ones occur. For this reason the research on magnesite and magnesia upgrading is focused on calcium and silica reduction. It is also important to observe behaviour of iron in separation process. So, the contribution deals with the magnetic separability determination of calcined magnesite ore fines from the Mútnik deposit (silica type). The content of fines –0.5mm can attain 25–30%. The behaviour of this material in high gradient magnetic field of separator was studied on the basis of magnetic fractions analysis and mass yields. The product of best quality with the content of 81.91% MgO at a mass yield of 82.77% and MgO recovery of 89.19% was won at the induction of 0.06T. An enhancement of magnetic field induction resulted in mass yield growing, recoveries increasing of all components into magnetic product and finally, in its gradual contamination by gangue components. So, a magnetic product with the MgO content of 79.98% at a mass yield of 91.07% and MgO recovery of 95.81% was prepared at the highest induction, i.e. 0.45T. Magnetic separability analysis with regards to feed quality into separation enables to preset the suitable induction of field to achieve the required quality of separation products.