Optimization of operation of hydrocyclones in classification of ore at Mikhailovsky GOK

The article reports the integrated analysis data on the influence exerted by various factors on the performance of hydrocyclones—the key equipment in mineral processing. The modern literature review displays the trend of increasing qualities of iron ore concentrates in Russia. The difficulties connected with beneficiation of ferruginous quartzite at the Mikhailovsky deposit are described with an emphasis on their hardness, fine impregnation of the useful component, etc. Special attention is given to the technology of re-enrichment of rough concentrates produced at the Andrei Varichev Mikhailovsky GOK, which enables considerable improvement of the final product quality. Also, the authors discuss the Mikhailovsky ore classification processes and emphasize their value in optimizing the plant’s production methods. It is pointed at the popularity and high demand of vertical mills in the mining industry owing to their high efficiency. The article discusses the key aspects of operation of hydrocyclones at industrial sites and highlights the advantages of hydrocyclones as the equipment of classification of ore materials. The factorial analysis of statistical data reveals two parameters which have the major effect on the performance of hydrocyclones: the ratio of the lower and upper drain pipe diameters and the feed solid concentration. Such factors as inlet pressure, volumetric efficiency and ready-to-use size content of feed show a miner influence on the characteristics of hydrocyclone drain. The implemented research data proved their statistical significance, which made it possible to build a reliable regression model that was later on checked in terms of conformity with the fidelity criteria. The analysis shows that the optimal performance of hydrocyclones, with regard to the peculiarities of ore at Mikhailovsky GOK, is achieved at the lower and upper drain pipe diameter ratio of 0.65 and at the feed solid content not higher than 37 %. These result offered ground for the conclusion on the expedience of using vertical mills in strong and abrasive ore processing because of a number of advantages over the conventional ball mills.The authors express their gratitude for the help in the performance of work to the members of Sever Minerals’ personnel, namely, to V. S. Trubilov, Head of Research and Testing, Yu. A. Berdnikov, Head of Processing Product Business Development, M. I. Andriychuk, Leading Sales Engineer, and to E. G. Kostikov, Leading Sales Engineer.