Filtration efficiency and the percolation phenomenon in a grooved-plate Separator

We present here the results of a study of the separation process in the extraction matrix of a novel high-intensity magnetic separator (HIMS). The matrix uses an ordered array of grooved plates (replacing conventional collectors, which are generally made of wires). Only experimental results are available for grooved plates in the literature, but here we propose a new theoretical approach. We report on the particles´ behavior, the existence of a percolation phenomenon, and the filtration efficiency, in order to analyze and compare the performance of matrix structures (Lenoir´s and Jones´). We discuss the causes of the percolation phenomenon and its effect on filtration efficiency. Correspondence between the theory and the experiments is good. We suggest appropriate uses of each matrix structure according to the property of the processed particles.