Classification equipment for mining controls the sizing of material before it reaches downstream processing. When sizing is off, recovery suffers. MechProTech (MPT) manufactures classification equipment engineered for accurate separation across a range of mineral processing applications.
The Role of Classification in Mineral Processing
Classification sits between comminution and downstream processing. After crushing and grinding reduce ore to target sizes, classification equipment separates material into size fractions. Oversize returns to the grinding circuit, while correctly sized material advances to the next processing stage.
Reliable classification keeps particle size distribution consistent, which directly affects metal recovery and plant throughput. The material being processed and the conditions on site determine which equipment fits the operation.
MPT’s TITAN range includes rotating barrel screens, rotating barrel breakers, vibrating screens, and static screens.
Rotating Barrel Screens
The TITAN Rotating Barrel Screen handles capacities of up to 2000 t/h, making it suitable for large-scale mining operations processing coarse material. The screen is driven by a chain and sprocket system, with rotation speed controlled by a Variable Speed Drive (VSD). Operators can adjust speed based on feed characteristics and moisture content.
Design configurations include:
- Tapered barrel
- Cylindrical barrel on a decline
- Cylindrical barrel with a spiral scroll bar for consistent flow across the screening bed
Inlet cones are standard, with dust covers and outlet configurations available as optional additions. A full range of screening media accommodates different material types and sizing requirements.
Rotating barrel screens are used in both dry and wet operations for sizing and washing, as well as de-sliming and de-watering.
Rotating Barrel Breakers
The TITAN Rotating Barrel Breaker focuses on size reduction while minimising the production of fines. Lifter bars are fitted as standard, designed to elevate material to between 60° and 75° before releasing it for maximum impact at the bottom of the barrel. This method cracks and breaks material along natural grain lines, producing a more uniform particle size distribution.
The breaker operates at 30% to 35% of critical speed, with a VSD installed to fine-tune performance. The unit is constructed from mild steel, with 25mm-thick perforated screening plates designed for durability and maximum open area. Dust covers are fully enclosed as standard.
Coal processing operations commonly use barrel breakers for controlled size reduction ahead of further classification or preparation.
Vibrating Screens
The TITAN Vibrating Screen runs at 5G linear vibration force and handles applications including scalping, sizing, classification, and de-watering. The screen operates in both wet and dry processing environments.
Key components include:
- Vibratory drive motors with oscillating mounts
- Coil spring suspension that isolates vibration from the supporting structure
- Abrasion-resistant impact bed and wear-resistant side walls
- VRN400 liners on material contact surfaces
- Machined cross beams and drive beams
- Epoxy-primed surfaces
Static Screens
The MPT Static Screen is a gravity-fed unit built for primary separation and scalping. Material flows over the screen surface, with grizzly bars retaining oversize particles while undersized material passes through.
The screen is constructed with S355 structural sides and VRN grizzly bars. Bar spacing is adjustable to suit specific circuit requirements, allowing operators to modify separation size without replacing components. Static screens require minimal maintenance, making them a practical option for long-term operation in harsh environments.
Built and Supported by MPT
MPT’s classification equipment is backed by after-sales services including spare parts and refurbishment programmes. Contact MPT to specify classification equipment matched to your processing requirements.