Metso launch breakthrough hydrocyclone technology

New MHC CB hydrocyclone to enhance efficiency and maximize capacity in classification process

METSO have introduced the newest member of their MHC hydrocyclones product family, the MHC CB (curved bottom). This new hydrocyclone is designed for superior particle separation with increased unit capacity and coarser cut sizes while minimizing the fines bypass.

Ben Klein, product group manager of hydrocyclones at Metso, said: ‘The design of the MHC CB is based on the proven MHC hydrocyclone but upgraded with new innovative features, making it a true breakthrough technology for the classification process.

‘Thanks to this unique patented design, the new hydrocyclone offers higher unit capacity compared with standard hydrocyclone technologies. The MHC CB is also capable of producing coarser overflow products for a given hydrocyclone size, allowing for greater flexibility in classification and especially beneficial to new coarse particle flotation circuits.

‘Finally, it provides enhanced classification efficiency by minimizing unwanted fines and water in the underflow.’

The MHC CB hydrocyclone is said to be ideal for grinding circuit classification – from primary to fine grinding – and for a full range of mineral types, and is highly compatible with dewatering and desliming applications.

The MHC CB is well suited to both greenfield and brownfield projects, whilst its simple design makes it easy to retrofit into existing hydrocyclone clusters.

‘In an effort to better support our partners and customers, the MHC CB was developed in partnership with Anglo American, who have worked with Metso since the onset in investigating improvement in hydrocyclone classification,’ explained Mr Klein.

‘Anglo American have provided support with both large-scale laboratory and pilot testing to prove the technology. Imperial College has also provided support in bringing this concept to light and in confirming the validity of this new technology as a third party.’

Metso will be promoting the MHC CB hydrocyclone for a variety of mineral product applications including aggregates, limestone, and silica sand.

Thanks to its energy efficiency and reduction in CO₂ emissions compared with similar wet classification technologies, the MHC CB hydrocyclone has been approved as part of Metso’s Planet Positive offering.