Jun 28, 2021

How MHC™ hydrocyclones and the CycloneSense™ enable classification optimization through sense

Hydrocyclones are a fines classification technology that separate a feed slurry into a coarse product (underflow) and a fines product (overflow). One issue is being able to adjust and predict for common bottlenecks such as when the slurry flow into the hydrocyclone exceeds a maximum limit and the air core collapses. This is also known as roping and indicates poor classification occurrence. So, what can be done?

Hydrocyclone’s role in minerals processing

The MHC™ is used in many different mine concentrators like copper, gold, silver, iron ore, lithium and potash either as a standalone hydrocyclone or multiple hydrocyclones as part of a larger cluster. It is used to classify a feed slurry into a coarse product and a fines product. Typically, it is placed in grinding classification circuits, but it can also be used in dewatering, desliming, coal classification, tailings management and more. The MHC™ hydrocyclone operates with pump pressure, which is what causes the classification of the slurry feed to occur.

Exceptional efficiency for optimal wet classification performance

The MHC™ hydrocyclone provides maximum classification performance and uptime. The innovative inlet head design allows for smooth flow of material within the hydrocyclone resulting in minimal friction and high capacity. The patent-pending design brings the next generation of hydrocyclone technology into wet classification, offering exceptional separation efficiency.

Enabling optimization through sense

The CycloneSense™ allows operators to see inside the hydrocyclone. It provides a direct, continuous and robust online measurement of the hydrocyclone air core, turning the hydrocyclone into a smart and connected asset. With CycloneSense operators are able see when the hydrocyclone is operating with an air core. This means the CycloneSense supports finding the correct operation window for parameters, such as flow and pressure, for successful classification. The measurement can be connected with automated control to manipulate variables such as feed pressure, density and number of operating cyclones to automate the optimal hydrocyclones operation.

Enabling circuit optimization

Operating conditions in the hydrocyclone process have a direct impact on plant availability and on grinding and flotation circuit efficiency. Combining the MHC™ hydrocyclones with the CycloneSense™ helps to increase process uptime and decrease maintenance costs by keeping the fractions that are too coarse from downstream processing and associated operating problems such as sanding at the bottom of the flotation tank. The combination of MHC™ hydrocyclones with the CycloneSense™, PSI® particle size analyzer and our optimization solutions will also improve process efficiency and recovery. This is done by ensuring optimal particle size for mineral liberation and recovery in flotation. Energy savings are also achieved through optimizing the amount of energy that is spent in the grinding process.

The MHC™ hydrocyclones and CycloneSense™ are a part of the Planet Positive portfolio. The Planet Positive portfolio focuses on the most impactful technologies in our sustainable offering.