The video shows operation of an experimental prototype separator designed for particle sizing. The separator is based on the use of the phenomenon of vibrational gradient segregation of granular materials.

It is observed when, under sufficiently intense vibration applied to a granular mix, the particles of each specific size (fraction) slowly (as compared with the vibration rate) move in the direction of their lowest concentration, that is, in the direction opposite to the direction of the concentration gradient for this fraction [1–3]. The motion of relatively fine particles in a vibrating granular medium is similar to the processes of matter propagation during diffusion.

It is believed that deterministic factors play a major role in the segregation processes, while vibration only “dilutes” the mix, facilitating the manifestation of such processes. The vibration intensity of (3-5) g is deemed sufficient for these purposes. Higher vibration intensities usually render the opposite effect, leading to vibrational fluidization with intensified mixing and chaotization of the particle motion. This phenomenon enables separation using the chaotic particle motion in the mix, occurring under more intense vibration. The chaotic motion ensures an ordered and directional (gradient) flow of particles.

As a result, arbitrarily located, in particular, vertical (as in the video) screening surfaces prove to be more efficient in terms of fine fraction separation as compared to conventional bottom surfaces. The advantages of such separators include high separation efficiency and performance per unit of footprint and the ability to handle wet material (Patent Nos. RU 2550607; 2608142; 139262 PM, etc.).

References

1. Blekhman I. I., Blekhman L. I., Vaisberg L. A., Vasilkov V. B., Yakimova K. S. On the phenomenon of vibrational diffusion segregation in granular materials // Reports of the Academy of Sciences. 2016. Vol. 466 No. 1. pp. 30–32.
2. Blekhman I. I., Blekhman L. I., Vaisberg L. A., Vasilkov V. B. Gradient vibrational segregation in granular material sizing processes // Obogashchenie Rud (Mineral Processing Journal). 2015. No. 5. pp. 20–24.
3. Blekhman I. I., Blekhman L. I., Vasilkov V. B., Yakimova K. S. On the theory of gradient vibrational segregationin screening processes // Obogashchenie Rud (Mineral Processing Journal). 2015. No. 6. pp. 19–22.