October 07, 2008

IIMT develops column floatation beneficiation technology

New Ind Press recently reported that in a major breakthrough, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology formerly known as Regional Research Laboratory, has developed a technology called column flotation for treating fine iron ore particles and low grade ores which are left dumped. As per report, the technology promises optimum utilization of resources at low cost.

Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology has already installed a pilot column at TATA Steel's West Bokaro Coal Washery and at Sudamudih Coal Washery in Ranchi for recovery of coal fines from plant tailings and low grade coalmines.

Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology Recently signed MoU with Kolkata based Tega industries for commercial exploitation of the product and would implement it in an iron ore project to start tests. Mr BK Mishra director of Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology that the technology transfer would take place in a month's time.

Mr Mehul Mohanka ED of Tega Industries Inc said "In course of time we would also talk with phosphorous and graphite industries. Tega would also explore the possibility of introducing it in foreign markets like Australia, South Africa and Canada."

As per report, the first commercial column flotation was installed in Les Mines Gaspe at Quebec in Canada in 1981.