To enhance precision and efficiency in mineral processing operations, Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the Thermo Scientific™ Elescan™ XRF-100 Online Multi-Stream Elemental Slurry Analyzer.
The analyser supplies real-time elemental analysis of multiple slurry streams in a centralised multiplexed system configuration by employing the latest Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) technology, including low-power, air-cooled X-ray tube. The modular design allows for optimisation of the sampling strategy for online analysis and incorporates the latest iteration of proven XRF technology, ensuring longevity and serviceability for the years to come, the company says.
Applications in mineral processing highlight the Elescan XRF-100’s adaptability, driving better productivity and operational gains in mineral processing plants, according to Thermo Fisher Scientific. In base metal and polymetallic ore plants, the analyser helps enhance recovery rates while increasing product quality. Because the measurements are taken in real time, the analyser gives plant operators immediate notification of process upsets, facilitating rapid response and remediation to minimise losses. Additional benefits include optimisation of reagent usage, reduction in product grade variability, control of product contaminant levels and rapid experimentation of operational strategies.
The company says the solution is ideal for various mineral processing applications, including rougher scavenger flotation feed and tailings analysis, concentrate monitoring and more. Typical elements measured include calcium, titanium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc and other elements.
Features/benefits of the solution outlined by Thermo Fisher Scientific include:
- Real-time, precise elemental analysis: Analyse up to 20 slurry streams sequentially with cycles as short as 15 seconds. The Elescan XRF-100’s high count rate (up to 300,000 cps) delivers accurate, actionable data to help optimise recovery rates;
- Isotope-free: The air-cooled X-ray tube eliminates the need for radioactive sources, reducing compliance burdens and ensuring worker safety, while supporting environmental sustainability initiatives;
- Versatility: The Elescan XRF-100 features a modular design that allows flexible integration into a wide range of plant set-ups. Its scalability ensures it can adapt to both small and large operations; and
- Composite sampling: The analyser provides the ability to acquire composite samples for each stream facilitating assay quality control.
Elescan XRF-100 is natively compatible with the Thermo Scientific VacFilt Vacuum Filter for de-watering the samples in-situ, reducing sample transport weight and enhancing personnel safety, the company added.
