Cost-Effective ABS Spiral Chute for Minerals

Working Principle

The spiral chute is a gravity separation equipment that operates based on the combined effects of gravity, centrifugal force, and fluid dynamics. It mainly consists of a spiral-shaped trough (typically with 4–6 turns), a feeding device, a water flushing system, and a product splitter.

The cross-section of the trough follows a specific curve (parabolic or composite), with the spiral vertically mounted on a central axis. Slurry is introduced at the top and flows downward along the spiral path.

The core working principle lies in the flow characteristics of slurry within the spiral channel, which enables stratification and separation of mineral particles with different densities. As the slurry spirals downward, centrifugal force pushes the particles outward. Denser minerals (such as ilmenite) experience stronger centrifugal force and tend to move toward the outer edge, while lighter minerals (like gangue) stay closer to the inner edge.

Simultaneously, the downward movement of slurry is driven by gravity along the inclined surface of the spiral, which further enhances the sedimentation and separation process.

The spiral chute is widely used for the separation of minerals with significant density differences, such as ilmenite, cassiterite, wolframite, and more.