Utilization of pyrite ash and copper slag as heavy media in coal washing

In this study, utilization of copper slag and pyrite ash which is mining waste as alternative heavy media in coal washing was investigated. In addition, performance evaluation of heavy media separation devices (Drum and Drewboy) and medium loss was investigated for Eski Çeltek Coal Washing Plant.As a result of studies, It was observed that the magnetite, copper slag and pyrite ash include some impurities such as hematite, quartz etc. Therefore, magnetic susceptibility of these materials and efficiency of medium recovery were found to be low. In addition, the medium loss in both washing and recovery units of the plant were determined to be over standards.In this plant, double-density heavy media separation is applied with drum (1.8 gr/cm3) and Drewboy (1.7 gr/cm3) type heavy media units in which magnetite is used as heavy media. Separation efficiency of the washing process was attained in the range of acceptable levels mentioned in the standards. Although, the result of separation conducted with copper slag and pyrite ash is also acceptable. Pre-enrichment with magnetic separator for these materials should be applied due to their unsatisfactory recovery efficiencies.