Functioning Characteristics

The most important variable in the maintaining of an optimal metallurgical efficiency in the LG7 spiral is the volume of the pulp for the feeding. The volume of the pulp in each spiral channel must be maintained between 18 to 22 USGPM without considering the tonneage of the material with which the system is fed. Higher volumes of the pulp make this splash and pour when it produces an overtension in the circuit. Lower volumes of the pulp in the channel of the spiral reduce the characteristics of mixing and hydraulic extatification which are important for performing precise separations of minerals.

The speed of the optimal feeding for each channel of the spiral is in a range of 1,5 to 3,0 tons per hour of feeding, using a material which has a size essentially inferior to net 14. The weakening the feeding of the spiral is beneficial, because the lamas and the non crystalline material increase the viscocity of the pulp and reduce the characteristics of estratification of the minerals of a fine size.

The density of the pulp of the feeding for the spirals LG7 can fluctuate from 20% to 50% of solids in weight, depending of the tons of feeding of the circuit. The density of the pulp of feeding is not a determinant factor; the density will vary according to the tonneage of feeding is maintained relatively constant.

Generally the efficiency which is reached in the separation of minerals among the gama of sizes of net 14 to net 325 is excellent. The efficient recuperations of the particles of mineral inferior to net 325, depend of the physical characteristics of the grains of the minerals, such as the form, the specific gravity, the degree of purity, etc. The efficiency in this type of metallurgical processes is also directly related with the degree of control which is maintained in the operation of the total plant with respect to the yearly income of the plant, the type of feeding and other general variables of the operation.