How to separate tin ore and tantalum niobium ore?
The separation of tin ore (cassiterite, SnO₂) from tantalum-niobium ore (e.g., columbite-tantalite) relies on a gravity-magnetic combined flow, as they are close in density but differ sharply in magnetism.
1. Mineral Properties (Key Differences)
Cassiterite (SnO₂): density 6.8–7.0 g/cm³, non-magnetic.
Tantalite/Columbite: density 7.0–8.3 g/cm³, weakly magnetic.
2. Flowsheet: Gravity Concentration → Magnetic Separation
Step 1: Crushing & Grinding
Crush and grind the ore to -0.35 mm to liberate monomers.
Step 2: Gravity Pre-Concentration (Remove Gangue)
Spiral Chute: Rough concentration; discard light gangue.
Shaking Table: Clean the heavy fraction; get mixed Sn–Ta–Nb concentrate.
Step 3: Magnetic Separation (Final Split)
Use a three-disc high-intensity magnetic separator (12,000–18,000 Gauss).
Magnetic product: Ta–Nb concentrate (tantalite/columbite).
Non-magnetic product: Sn concentrate (cassiterite).
Three discs magnetic separator
3. Optional Polishing (For High-Grade)
Electrostatic Separation: Remove conductive impurities from Sn; non-conductive Ta–Nb goes to tailings.
Flotation: Separate sulfides (e.g., pyrite) if present.
4. Typical Equipment Line
Jaw Crusher → Ball Mill → Spiral Chute → Shaking Table → Three-Disc Magnetic Separator → (Electrostatic Separator).
5. Key Parameters
Grind size: -0.35 mm.
Magnetic field: 12,000–18,000 Gauss.
Sn recovery: >85%; Ta–Nb recovery: >80%.
