Effective solids separation solutions for a better bottom line
Separation solutions: hydrocyclones, centrifuges, classifiers and more
Separate yourself from the rest
To successfully compete in today’s challenging world economy, companies require innovative solutions that drive their plant operating systems to function at peak efficiency.
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Cyclones
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A cyclone, also known as a hydrocyclone, is a centrifugal device with no moving parts. It can be used to concentrate slurries, classify solids in liquid suspensions, de-grit liquids, and for washing or cleaning solids. A hydrocyclone can perform ultra-fine separations and handle large-volume feed streams with high solids loading.
Cyclones frequently are used as an efficient and effective means to protect or pre-treat material, to improve the performance or decrease the cost of downstream equipment, such as centrifuges, filters, and screens. Cyclones are also used in conjunction with thickeners, clarifiers and strainers.
Heavy Media Separation (HMS) or Dense Media Separation (DMS) cyclones (hydrocyclones) are designed specifically for cleaning applications. Within the cyclone, weight and gravity separate the lighter material from the heavier material, as the media’s buoyancy effect forces the lighter solids to the cyclone’s centre, where they float upward and out through the vortex. The heavier, denser material spirals to the outside of the cyclone, and sinks down towards the apex exit. -
Centrifuges
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To meet your requirements, we offer a comprehensive range of centrifuge systems for coarse and fine material separation and dewatering, including screw-style and basket-style, our popular screenbowl centrifuge, and a variety of solidbowl centrifuge configurations.
Centrifuges utilise the principles of centrifugal force — the force from spinning that moves material away from the machine’s centre – to enhance the force of gravity on particles and achieve separation based on the particle’s density.
Mining and industrial centrifuges typically comprise a cylindrical or cone-shaped bowl or tube, rotated at high speed. Material is fed as a slurry toward the centre of the unit, and due to its rotation, is forced outward. The slurry is held against the outer wall of the container, and the water can filter through the solids bed and exit as concentrate. One of various methods of removing solids (depending on the centrifuge type) is then employed to move the solids to the discharge area. -
Gravity and density separators
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Gravity separation is the separation of two or more minerals of different specific gravity by their relative movement in response to the force of gravity and one or more other forces (such as centrifugal, magnetic, drag or buoyant forces). The resistance to motion, known as drag force, by a medium such as heavy media, water or even air, is one such force.
Dense media separation utilises a medium with a density in between the density of the ore and the gangue (commercially worthless) particles. When introduced to this medium, particles either float or sink, depending on their density, as relative to the medium. Separation using this method relies solely on differences in density, without relying on other characteristics such as particle weight or shape.
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Drum separators
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Heavy media drum separation (HMS) also known as dense media separation, is a process used to separate materials that have different specific weight. A heavy media fluid of the correct density is pumped and kept in circulation inside a rotating drum. The material to be separated is immersed into the fluid, which allows lighter particles to float, while heavier ones sink.
Our drum separators and plants combine high efficiency with a unique feature: All mechanical drive parts are external to the drum – with no buckets, chains or other moving parts located within the processor. This design significantly reduces wear caused by abrasive media solids, minimises replacement costs, and greatly simplifies maintenance.
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Classifiers
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Material classification can be achieved through a number of methods. The ideal method for your operation depends on your industry, application and process flow.
As demands rise, your operation needs advanced equipment. FLSmidth is your partner in productivity, our experience and knowledge will provide you with the advantages and benefits you need to make your job easier, and your company more productive.