Granulometry of Bauxite Slurry at the Outlet of Grinding Circuit

Hi Friends,

In earlier posts, we  have already discussed about the Desilication in Bayer process and Design  of agitators for Pre-desilication tanks. Thus, It is essential to have the fair idea about the particle size distribution, percentage solids, density of particle and viscosity of ground Bauxite slurry as product of grinding circuit. Such process and operating data may not be available in any published documents. As such the granulometry of Bauxite slurry varies widely for different Alumina refineries but given data are adequate for taking up initial design work of the plant  

Previously, we have already discussed in detail the methodology to work out the motor rating of agitator for a typical pre-desilication tank. In present post, we are presenting  the typical granulometry of bauxite particles in slurry fed to desilication tanks as given below-
            Particle size distribution as percentage in slurry on weight basis

Mesh Size (BS)	Typical	Range
+10 Mesh	1	0-2
-10 + 12 Mesh	2	1-3
-12 + 14 Mesh	2	1-3
-14 + 16 Mesh	6	5-7
-16 + 30 Mesh	18	16-20
-30 + 85 Mesh	13	10-15
-85 + 100 Mesh	3	2-5
-100 + 200 Mesh	12	10-15
-200 Mesh	43	41-45

Such reliable data / information are rarely available in any published literature as it has been presented as outcome of personal experience in the related field.

Trust, all concerned individuals will find this information very useful for design of agitator for Desilication tanks and meeting related process requirements for selection of slurry transfer pumps. Please put your views / suggestions / remarks / comments, if any.

Regards.

Kunwar Rajendra