The process that is used to remove paramagnetic particles from a mineral slurry is called High Gradient Magnetic Separation (MOMS). It was developed at MIT about 40 years ago. A solenoid surrounds a separation canister which is filled with a matrix of magnetic stainless steel wool. The magnetic field generated by the solenoid causes high gradients of field to form around the strands of steel wool in the matrix. When a mineral slurry is introduced into the canister, paramagnetic particles are attracted to the matrix and held there, while the non-magnetic material is free to pass on through the canister. Over time, the matrix becomes loaded with impurities and the magnetic field must be removed and the matrix washed. This batch process occurs several times an hour, the cycle timing being determined by the nature and the quantity of the paramagnetic impurities that must be removed.
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