1. Modeling

The aim of modeling is to develop a procedure for predicting the sharing potential of a separator for varying tonnages, ore characteristics and functional parameters. For each model proposed, we start from hypotheses that are intuitively satisfactory and consistent with observation, laws that are more or less approximate, empirical relationships, etc. The design of a model leads to a better understanding of segregation phenomena in equipment, to comparisons between different equipment or workshops, and to optimization of the operation of an appliance or a set of appliances. It is therefore necessary to compare the model with experimental results. Finally, if a reliable model is available, it can be included in process and plant operation simulations.

Depending on the type of separator, modeling is more or less easy and the models more or less usable. By way of example,...