Work

Pushing the frontiers of ultrafine crushing and the impact on comminution energy and mineral liberation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The current mining climate has seen a steady increase in research and development of less energy-intensive ore mining and processing pathways, particularly for low-grade abrasive ores. Invariably, mine operators are continually seeking innovative capital and operating cost reduction options for energy- and capital-intensive unit operations such as comminution to stay competitive. In this study, the performance of a novel laboratory-scale superfine crusher and a ball mill, in terms of comminution energy requirement and mineral liberation characteristics, is investigated for magnetite ore beneficiation. The impact of particle size reduction using the superfine crusher and ball mill on specific energy input, particle size distribution, mineral liberation, and the response of their respective discharge products to magnetic separation was also probed. The study demonstrated the ability of the novel superfine crushing technology to produce ultrafine particle sizes historically executed by milling and grinding technologies, with a corresponding improved mineral liberation and frugal energy use.

Source: Minerals Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.mineng.2025.109430

Authors: Emmanuel Baawuah, Jonas Addai-Mensah, William Skinner

Institutions: University of South Australia, Curtin University, Namibia University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Mineral Processing and Grinding

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,220