Elutriation is a mineral processing technique that separates target minerals from gangue based on differences in size, shape, and density. At Core Resources, this process is utilised to enhance mineral separation efficiency across various applications. 

Elutriation Process at Core Resources

The elutriation process at Core Resources involves introducing slurry into the midpoint of an elutriator to prevent short-circuiting. Simultaneously, water is injected from the bottom at a controlled upward velocity. Minerals with settling velocities greater than the water’s upward flow settle to the underflow, while lighter or finer minerals are carried to the overflow. Adjusting the water velocity, controlled by pump speed, allows for tailored separation based on specific mineral characteristics. 

Applications of Elutriation Testing

Core Resources has applied elutriation testing across various testwork programs, including:

• Gold Ores: Enhancing the concentration of gold by separating it from less dense gangue minerals.
• Albion Process™ Residues: Optimising the recovery of valuable metals from residues generated by the Albion Process™, a proprietary technology for processing refractory ores.
• Rare Earth Flotation Concentrates: Improving the purity of rare earth elements by removing unwanted minerals.

These applications demonstrate the versatility and effectiveness of elutriation in improving mineral processing outcomes.

Benefits of Elutriation Testing

Implementing elutriation testing offers several advantages:

• Enhanced Separation Efficiency: By exploiting differences in mineral properties, elutriation achieves more precise separation.
• Optimised Metal Recovery: Improved separation leads to higher recovery rates of valuable metals.
• Cost-Effective Processing: Efficient separation reduces processing costs by minimising the volume of material requiring further treatment.

Core Resources’ expertise in elutriation testing provides clients with critical insights to refine their separation processes and maximise metal recovery.

For more information on Core Resources’ elutriation testing services and how they can benefit your mineral processing projects, please contact us.