Effect of matrix fiber size on performance of HGMS

This investigation of High Gradient Magnetic Separation (HGMS) technology established the relationship between process efficiency and the size of metallic wool fiber used in the collection matrix. A kaolin clay system was used to establish this relationship in which the magnetic beneficiation was found to be inversely proportional to the squared diameter of the wool fiber size. A theoretical model was developed to describe the pressure drop through the matrix as a function of the geometric and process parameters. This model was then shown to be useful in predicting the amount of collected magnetic material.