Economic and Socio-Environmental Benefits of Dry Beneficiation of Magnetite Ores

Abstract

In our previous studies, we demonstrated the performance of novel superfine crusher and pneumatic planar magnetic separator as energy-efficient technologies for dry processing of magnetite ores. The present study investigates the economic and socio-environmental benefits of applying these technologies in conceptual dry magnetite ore processing flowsheet. The outcome of the study is compared with that of a conceptual wet processing flowsheet for the same ore. The cost estimations used are based on the Brook Hunt C1 methodology whilst revenue estimations are based on the Platts Iron Ore Index specification. The demonstrated economic and socio-environmental benefits show that dry processing flowsheet offers significant energy and cost savings and improved revenue generation compared with the wet process flowsheet. These findings are vital to the magnetite industry, particularly in water- and energy-scarce regions as a benchmark for future studies aimed at deepening and expanding the knowledge base of dry beneficiation of magnetite ores.