Technology optimization for processing of raw materials from heterogeneous carbonate deposits

Purpose. The research is aimed at determining the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of complex limestone processing from the Oleshiv limestone deposit while calculating the energy absorption rates in the processes of processing non-metallic mineral raw materials. Methodology. The authors of the paper sampled limestone in three outcropped locations of the Oleshiv mineral deposit. The degree of limestone purity in marketable products by type of fraction is examined using an X-ray DRON-3 diffractometer. The ultimate compressive strength of limestone is determined in laboratory conditions using a specialized test press KL 200/CE-Tecnotest. Energy absorption rates are calculated based on parameters characterizing the main stages of limestone processing, including crushing, transportation and screening. Findings. The main trends in the field of limestone mining and processing have been analyzed, highlighting previously unresolved problems. On the example of processing limestone from the Oleshiv deposit, a technological scheme for its beneficiation has been developed; qualitative and quantitative parameters of the beneficiation process have been determined; the mineral composition of the fractional marketable product has been studied; the parameters of limestone compressive strength, as well as energy absorption rates in the processing processes to obtain finished products have been found. Originality. The patterns of change in the flux limestone content during its beneficiation with preliminary dry extraction of marketable fractions of 80–130, 40–80 and 20–40 mm have been revealed. The patterns of the finished product yield distribution have been identified, taking into account the movement of clay-sand raw materials in the 0–20 mm fraction and its combination with the preliminary extraction of the 0–40 mm fraction before crushing. Based on mineralogical analysis of limestone composition by fraction types, it has been found that the degree of its purity increases from 85.54 to 94.0 %. The energy absorption rates during limestone processing have been determined, taking into account the physical-mechanical properties of the mineral and the parameters of equipment operation. Practical value. A technological scheme for the beneficiation of limestone from the Oleshiv deposit has been developed, which allows for the production of seven fractions of limestone and one fraction of clay-sand raw materials. This scheme is optimized to maximize the extraction of the useful component, while ensuring high quality of the final product. The dynamics of energy absorption during limestone crushing, transportation, and screening has been determined, which makes it important to develop further recommendations for optimizing energy consumption in crushing processes.