New Technology for Cyclones and Grind Optimization


CiDRA says its CYCLONEtrac OSM system offers a novel, complete turn-key system, which reliably
enables optimized hydrocyclone cluster operation, identifying subpar efficiency events at the individual
hydrocyclone level.
CiDRA Minerals Processing Inc. displayed its CYCLONEtrac Classification Optimization family of products at the SME Annual Meeting and Exhibit held in February in Salt Lake City, Utah. Describing the family of products as novel, complete turn-key systems that enable reliable optimization of classification at the individual hydrocyclone level, the company said the CYCLONEtrac Oversized Monitoring system (OSM) and CYCLONEtrac Particle Size Tracking system (PST) provide reliable, real-time coarse particle monitoring and particle size tracking on individual hydrocylones, enabling plant operators to reduce process upsets, improve closed circuit grind and classification, and maximize mineral recovery. CiDRA described the systems as “…groundbreaking as they enable long-term sustainable continuous improvement strategies improving and maintaining plant recovery.”

The CYCLONEtrac OSM system is based on a noninvasive clamp-on sensing ring designed for use in primary grinding. The system monitors the flow of coarse particles ≥6 mm (pebbles) reporting to the overflow pipes of individual hydrocyclones, which indicates poor classification performance. The value of this technology lies in enabling operators, or automated control systems, to take immediate action to avoid prolonged periods of lower recovery through the early detection and isolation of pebble events.

The CYCLONEtrac PST system is based on a clamp-on design with a sensor that is in contact with the slurry and has been designed for primary grinding. The PST system tracks a key particle size parameter (e.g., P80, % +150 µm) of individual hydro-cyclone overflow streams. This realtime feedback can be used to control a closed circuit grind process such that the desired particle size reports to the downstream flotation process, thus maximizing plant recovery. According to the company, the CYCLONEtrac PST system is the only system of its kind available today. The value of this technology lies in its ability to track the particle size of the entire overflow stream in real time, thereby enabling improved mineral recovery while maintaining or increasing plant throughput.

CiDRA said CYCLONEtrac systems are designed to provide operators with actionable information that can be used to increase plant throughput, recovery, and equipment availability, and will offer the systems as complete solutions.

As featured in Womp 2014 Vol 05 - www.womp-int.com