Effect of reverse flotation on magnetic separation concentrates

Reverse flotation studies on magnetite samples have revealed that the use of starch as a depressant of Fe-oxides has a hydrophilic effect on the surface of Fe-bearing silicates and significantly decreases Fe in the silica-rich stream when used in combination with an amine (Lilaflot D817M). In this study, the effect of reverse flotation on the optimization of products obtained from magnetic separation was investigated. Two different magnetic samples, zones 1 and 2, were milled to <75 μm and then subjected to low intensity magnetic separation (LIMS). The LIMS test conducted on the <75 μm shown an upgrade of 46.40wt% Fe, 28.40wt% SiO₂ and 2.61wt% MnO for zone 1 and 47.60wt% Fe, 29.17wt% SiO₂ and 0.50wt% MnO for zone 2. Further milling of the ore to <25 μm resulted in a higher magnetic-rich product after magnetic separation. Reverse flotation tests were conducted on the agitated magnetic concentrate feed, and the result shows a significant upgrade of Fe compared to that obtained from the non-agitated feed. Iron concentrations greater than 69%, and SiO₂ concentrations less than 2% with overall magnetite recoveries greater than 67% and 71% were obtained for zones 1 and 2, respectively.