Investigation of low grade chrome ores enrichment

In this study, processing of chromite ores taken from Maraş Sarıgüzel Çakıobası area was investigated applying combination of Knelson Concentrator and MGS (Multi Gravity Separator), Shaking Tables and High Gradient Wet Magnetic Seperator. XRD analyses showed that the ore contains mainly Magnesichromite, Chromite and Iron Silicate crystal phases. The MGS process was choosen as processing method for this type of ores. At the optimum working conditions (d80 = 0.076 mm, 145 rpm drum speed, 6o incline degree, 1,5 l/min water rates and %15 pulp density) of MGS, a concentrate was obtained with 38,46% Cr2O3, 21,10% Fe2O3, 21,40% Al2O3 and 2,90% SiO2. The concentrate is not suitable for direct selling as a commercial chromite concentrate because of its grade (Cr2O3) is less than 48% at the current market conditions. However, the concentrate can be utilized at the refractory industry as a casting sand.