Thesis (M.Ing.) -- University of Stellenbosch, 1999.ENGLISH SUMMARY: The aim of this study was to minimise the production of the -38 μm fraction
during the milling process of ilmenite ore from the Rooiwater Complex and to
increase the grade of the iron oxide-rich concentrate during the magnetic
separation process.
An intensive investigation was done on different milling equipment and
methods to minimise or prevent the fine fraction from forming. Conventional
ball and rod milling methods with different size distribution of the mi11ing
media (homogeneous and heterogeneous) were used in the investigation.
From the results obtained, it was clear that it is impossible to prevent fines
from being produced but it can be minimised to a certain extent.
It was concluded that a new approach in the concentration of the ilmenite ore
is needed. This approach can be by screening the fines before the· different
magnetic separation processes, investigate new high intensity magnetic
separators or design a whole new extraction route for the ilmenite ore.AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van hierdie studie was om die produksie van die -38 μm fraksie tydens
die vermaling van die ertse van die Rooiwater Kompleks te minimaliseer en om
die graad van die ysteroksied ryke konsentraat gedurende die magnetiese
skeidingsproses te verhoog.
'n Intensiewe ondersoek was gedoen op verskillende vermalings toerusting en
metodes om die fyn fraksie te minimaliseer. Konvensionele bal- en
staafvermalingsmetodes met verskillende grootteverspreidings van die
vermalingsmedia (homogeen en heterogeen) was gebruik in die ondersoek.
Vanuit die resultate verkry was dit duidelik dat dit onmoontlik is om die fyn
fraksie te voorkom maar dit kan tot 'n mate geminimaliseer word. Daar is tot die slotsom gekom dat 'n nuwe benadering nodig is om die ilmeniet
erts te konsentreer. Hierdie benadering kan wees deur die fyn fraksie uit te sif
voor die verskillende magnetiese prosesse, ondersoek die nuwe hoe intensiteit
magnetiese skeiers of om 'n nuwe ekstraksie roete vir ilmeniet te ontwerp.Maste
