Optimising circuit design for gravity gold recovery

To determine the optimal circuit configuration for gravity gold recovery consideration should be given to a range of factors in addition to the efficiency of the gravity circuit, including capital costs, ease of operation and impact on comminution. The most common gravity gold circuits utilise a ce...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Staunton, William, Bax, A.
Other Authors: G. Deschenes
Format: Conference Paper
Published: The Canadian of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum 2012
Online Access:http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/20748
Description
Summary:To determine the optimal circuit configuration for gravity gold recovery consideration should be given to a range of factors in addition to the efficiency of the gravity circuit, including capital costs, ease of operation and impact on comminution. The most common gravity gold circuits utilise a centrifugal concentrator treating a portion of the hydrocyclone underflow. This paper will examine this option and alternative circuit configurations to illustrate the effect of various gravity circuit feed and tailings configurations on the equipment sizing, capital costs, operating costs, water balance, comminution efficiency and gravity gold recovery. The optimum circuit configuration can provide reduced capital and operating costs, maximise gravity gold recovery and improve comminution efficiency.