Official source
Source domain: mintek.co.za
Collected on 7 July 2026
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What this means
The document describes a new automation technology developed by Mintek for gravity spirals used in mineral processing. It explains a retrofittable nozzle-based actuation system that moves material between concentrate and tails ports to improve recovery and/or grade, reducing the need for manual splitter adjustments. Test work at a platinum producer showed the system reduced variability in concentrate chrome grade by 85% when paired with an online grade analyser. The system can operate with either an optical system or an online grade analyser for feedback control.
What this document offers
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gravity spiral automation technologyOngoing
Gravity Spiral Control - Improving grade stability and performance
Mintek makes available a spray-nozzle actuation and control technology for gravity spirals. It directs material between concentrate and tails ports, can be retrofitted to existing spirals, and can use an optical system or online grade analyser for feedback control.
- Who it is for
- Operators of gravity spiral plants and mineral processing operations
- How to act on it
- Contact the author with questions at adrianr@mintek.co.za.
Show the line this came from
The nozzles are fully retro-fittable to existing spirals, with no need for modifying the spiral structure.
Who can apply
What matters before you act: the conditions this listing sets, as Govermate read them.
The document sets no condition.
Key Takeaways
- subject: gravity spirals automation
- inventor/organization: Mintek
- technology: spray nozzle actuation system for spiral concentrate/tails control
- retrofit: fully retro-fit able to existing spirals
- measurement: online grade analyser or optical system
- test site: platinum producer
- scope: recleaner bank ~75% of final concentrate mass pull
- result: 85% reduction in concentrate chrome grade variability
- benefit: improved concentrate grade stability and potential increased recovery/production
- control elements: variable pressure control valve, distribution manifold, spray nozzles