Performance evaluation practices at dense medium separation circuits

In this paper, the application of density tracers for performance prediction of dense medium circuits and the strategies for identification of potential problems in operating plants are outlined, and the results obtained at various performance prediction and evaluation studies performed in various coal washing plants are summarized. Based on the performance data and their interpretation, the potential problems in existing operations are identified, and strategies and comments are given for optimum operation. The performance prediction tests using density tracers enabled the identification of inadequacies in operating dense medium drums, the quantification of retention phenomena in dense medium cyclones and indicating the importance of equally distribution of flows. Additionally, the results of the density tracer tests down to 2mm are given which is valuable being one of the very few studies ever conducted at such fine sizes.