Laboratory Magnetic Rare-Earth Roll separator

Operation Principle

Material to be separated is fed evenly either onto the separator belt that moves over the magnetic roll (supported by an idler roll), or it is fed directly onto the plain roll. The latter requires prior efficient removal of medium and strongly magnetic particles. Magnetic particles are attracted towards the magnetic roll, while nonmagnetic or diamagnetic particles flow unhindered in a trajectory away from the roll, allowing two or three products to be collected.

A standard feature on the L/P 10-30 is two splitters and three stainless steel collection pans. Magnetic, middling and nonmagnetic (or less magnetic) products can be collected or middlings can be combined with either of the other two. Collection pans have nearly a 4-liter (1 US gal) capacity.

Separation Efficiency

Very sharp separation can be achieved due to the uniform magnetic strength and extremely wide range of precisely controlled roll speeds. Test data obtained with this unit is used to determine the technical feasibility of separating various minerals and chemicals as well as to provide engineering data for sizing of a plant. It is also useful for exploration work (e.g., diamonds and mineral sands). In other words, it can be used as a tool for mineralogical studies and producing quantities of fracer minerals.

Scale-up Features

The Laboratory Magnetic Roll Separator offers direct scaleable test results. Because the machine is built just like its production counterpart, data from testing can be scaled linearly to the desired production-sized machine.

Feeding System

A vibratory feeder draws material from a relatively large feed bin (22 liters, 5 gal).

Drive System

The standard drive is a direct coupled, closed loop DC motor (1/3 hp). A digital rpm meter shows the roll speed, which can be continuously adjusted to any desired level (up to 700 rpm).

Belts

Three belts are supplied with the Laboratory/ Pilot Roll Separator. Belts are made of two materials and available in five thicknesses. Graphite-impregnated Kevlar is available in 0.13, 0.25, and 0.43 mm (5, 10, and 17mil). Coated polyester belts are offered in either 0.6 or 1mm (26 and 40 mil) thickness.

Applications

The Laboratory Roll Separator can be used in most all-dry applications currently using magnetic separation equipment. Some materials having been successfully tested are: