Recovery enhancement of graphite tub-dust to 99+ carbon using a mill modification

Abstract

There are many mineral processing methods that are being used in mining and mineral processing industries. One such method very widely used in the graphite industry is froth flotation. During the present study, graphite having a 82- 85% C, with a low market, has been up- graded to Carbon 99% + grade by using flotation. It has been observed that the rod weight in the grinding operation has a major role to play. If the rod weight is increased over and above the critical weight, over grinding takes place. Further, it has been found that pH and the type of collector also play major roles in the graphite processing. Laboratory trials indicate that by using the rod weight of 625kg to 725kg in the rod mill and the particle size range of 75 to 150 microns, maximum recovery of 85% could be achieved at 99% + C grade.