Gravimetric Separation in Mineral Jigs – How It Works

The process of gravimetric separation is the foundation of how mineral jigs, like the Mini Max, Riverdance Max, and Pioneer Peak Max, operate. This ingenious process allows for the efficient recovery of gold and other heavy minerals from placer deposits. Let’s delve into how it works and why it’s so effective.

Understanding Gravimetric Separation

Gravimetric separation is a mining method that separates materials based on differences in density and size. Since gold and other valuable minerals are significantly heavier than the surrounding sediment, this principle is highly effective for gold recovery. The added benefit of size classification makes mineral jigs super-concentrators.

Mineral jigs pulse water up and down through a screen to achieve this separation. As the water pulses, it creates a stratified bed, allowing denser materials to sink where they are trapped or pass through a screen. At the same time, lighter, unwanted materials are washed away.

How the Process Works in a Jig

Feeding the Material:
Raw material, usually a mixture of sediment and water, is introduced into the jig.
Stratification:
The pulsating water creates layers within the jig bed. Gold and other dense materials settle at the bottom, while less dense material is pushed to the top.
Capture and Discharge:
The heaviest minerals are trapped in the jig tray or they pass through a screen and discharge into a collection tub, while the waste material exits through the top of the jig.
Continuous Operation:
This process operates continuously, allowing for the constant recovery of valuable minerals and the discharge of waste without any need for cleaning or resetting.

The Science Behind the Magic

The key to a jig’s efficiency lies in the pulsation mechanism. This motion prevents the buildup of sediment and ensures a consistent stratification process. Furthermore, the design of Riverdance Gold Mining’s jigs minimizes turbulence, reducing the risk of losing fine gold particles.

Advantages of Gravimetric Separation in Jigs

- High Recovery Rates: Particularly for fine gold and other small particles.

Classification: Separates coarse and fine concentrates for speedy refining.

Eco-Friendly: Minimal use of chemicals, reducing environmental impact.
Cost-Effective: Low energy consumption and maintenance requirements.

Why Choose Riverdance Gold Mining Jigs?

Our portable jigs are engineered for simplicity and reliability. Whether you’re using the Mini Max for small-scale prospecting or the Pioneer Peak Max for industrial applications, you can trust our jigs to deliver consistent results.