Optimisation opportunities for HPGR circuits

Paper i proceeding, 2012

Based on a thorough review of the Mogalakwena North Concentrator of Anglo Platinum Operations, a wide range of issues were identified that form bottlenecks to the operation. In order to address these, a series of surveys were conducted and the entire dry circuit modelled in detail. From this a full simulation of the plant has been developed, this includes updated models of the HPGR, crusher, bins and screens. These have been implemented in the researchers MDK version of JKSimMet and in a prototype dynamic simulator based on the Matlab Simulink software. The observations, measurements and simulations have provided guidance and quantified the influence of proposed circuit modifications. Based on these a number of upgrades are being planned aimed at ensuring full utilisation of the installed equipment. The circuit demonstrates a potential expansion of over 30% through minor improvements and 70% with the addition of some strategic equipment.