Mineral separations using rotating magnetic fluids

Theory is developed for many variations of a new concept allowing precise two-product or multiproduct mineral separations based primarily on differences in particle specific gravities at specific gravity split points from 1.5 to 21.0 and beyond. Separations are analogous to those achieved with heavy media in rotation by various means including rotating ducts, spirals and whirlpool-type hydrocyclones, except that the effective specific gravity of the fluid is created magnetically using various sets of slurry rotation modes, magnetic field shapes, and magnetic fluid types. Effective separations are projected, including the use of relatively dilute, low-cost and low-viscosity water-based ferromagnetic fluids. High-grade and recovery separations of two-component mixtures of mineral substantially confirm analytical models for several of the concept variations.