Optimization of wolframite magnetic capture behavior through thread magnetic matrix

Abstract

This study introduces a novel thread magnetic matrix designed for high-gradient magnetic separation to address the beneficiation challenges associated with fine-grained wolframite. The impact of magnetic matrix parameters on the magnetic capture behavior of wolframite was thoroughly explored by combining experimental and theoretical calculations. The experimental results show that the arrangement of magnetic matrices, thread spacing, and magnetic matrix gap significantly influence the magnetic capture behavior of wolframite. Under optimized experimental conditions, the use of thread magnetic matrix significantly improved the recovery rate of wolframite across different particle sizes by 10 % ∼ 25 % compared to cylindrical magnetic matrix. Theoretical calculations indicate that the magnetic force acting on wolframite increases as the matrix gap and thread spacing decrease in the magnetic separation space. However, when the matrix gap and thread spacing become too small, the influence of slurry flow characteristics and interactions between adjacent threads on the magnetic separation behavior becomes more pronounced. Additionally, fine-grained wolframite experiences weaker magnetic forces and has a smaller capture radius, resulting in lower capture efficiency of the thread magnetic matrix for fine particles. This study establishes a theoretical foundation for enhancing the separation efficiency of fine-grained wolframite and promoting the advancement of high-gradient magnetic separation technology.