Possibilities of a Thermomechanical Method for Enriching Magnesia-Bearing Raw Materials to Obtain Quality Magnesia

Abstract

A thermomechanical method is examined for its potential use in concentrating magnesia-bearing raw materials from the Satka deposit by removing the impure components. It is shown that roasting magnesite within the range 680 – 750°C and its subsequent break-up (abrasion) under certain mechanical loads can increase MgO content in the <0.5 mm fraction of the roasted product nearly 10%. It is established that dust entrainment is minimal and does not exceed 1.5% when the magnesite is roasted in a fixed bed. This result can be obtained with a tenfold change in the thickness of the bed (from 20 to 200 mm).