Filed of the Invention

The present invention relates to an apparatus and system for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents, and in particular to an apparatus and system allowing an improvement in respect of the yield and the quality of the magnetic constituents separated off, and separating large amounts of magnetic con- stituents from a stream of a dispersion with a very small ratio of nonmagnetic constituents being separated off together with the magnetic constituents.

Background of the Invention Processes and apparatuses for separating magnetic constituents from a dispersion which comprises magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents are used for separation of ore from gangue.

Processes and apparatuses for separating magnetic constituents are for example known from WO 2010/031617 A1 , WO 2012/104292 A1 , DE 10 2008 047 855 A1 , WO 2009/030669 A1 , WO 2009/010422, WO 2009/065802, WO 2010/007075, WO 2010/007157 and US 5,051 ,199.

Summary of the Invention The present invention provides an apparatus and system for separating magnetic constituents from the stream of a dispersion comprising these magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents, which apparatus leads to an improvement in respect of the yield and the quality of the magnetic constituents separated off, and allows separating large amounts of magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion wherein a very small ratio of nonmagnetic constituents may be separated off together with the magnetic constituents.

The present invention provides an apparatus and system for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents according to the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims.

According to an exemplary embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion comprising magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents, wherein the apparatus comprises a first channel having a longitudinal direction, and conveyor arrangement having a conveying track, wherein the first channel comprises first inlet opening, a first outlet opening, and a second outlet opening, wherein the conveyor arrangement is arranged outside the first channel wherein the conveyor arrangement is adapted to generate a magnetic field maximum moving at least partly along the first channel in the longi- tudinal direction, so that non-magnetic constituents are conveyed with a stream of dispersion into the first outlet opening and magnetic constituents are conveyed by application of magnetic force into the second outlet opening.

Thus, it is possible to prove an apparatus allowing continuous process of separation. The appa- ratus has a good yield and quality of the magnetic constituents separated off, and allows separating a large amount of magnetic constituents from a stream of dispersion with a very small ratio of nonmagnetic constituents being separated off together with the magnetic constituents.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first channel is tubular and has a substantially cir- cular or elliptical cross section.

Thus, it is possible to have a good flow property. It should be noted that the cross section may also be a square or a rectangle, in particular with rounded edges. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first channel comprises a tapering which tapers down before the second outlet opening.

Thus, the velocity of the stream can be increased close to the second outlet opening and the magnetic particles can be concentrated. It should be noted that the tapering can be a linear ta- pering or a parabolic tapering. The transit from upstream channel to the tapering portion and/or from the tapering portion to the downstream channel may be smooth to avoid turbulences. The tapering may be also in only one dimension, i.e. the dimension of the channel in one direction remains and in the other direction tapers. This may result in a squared cross section tapering to a rectangular cross section or vice versa, or an elliptic cross section tapering to a circular cross section or vice versa.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the tapering is located at a channel position being adjacent to the conveying track. Thus, the transport of magnetic particles by the conveyor arrangement is conducted from an upstream channel portion through the tapering to a downstream channel portion, so that the conveyor may support the concentration of magnetic constituents in the tapering portion and the narrower channel portion.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a second inlet open- ing arrangement, wherein the second inlet opening arrangement is adapted for providing a washing stream into the first channel, so that magnetic constituents are conveyed counter to the washing stream into the second outlet opening.

Thus the separation of magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents is supported. The washing stream avoids traveling of non-magnetic constituents into the second outlet, i.e. the outlet for magnetic constituents.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the second inlet opening arrangement is provided downstream the first outlet opening and upstream the second outlet opening.

Thus the washing stream may be divided into an upstream portion and a downstream portion, which may improve the separation process.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the second inlet opening arrangement comprises a first inlet pipe terminating in the channel and being slanted with respect to the channel such that the washing stream enters the channel slanted.

Thus, the washing liquid does not have to turn by 90°, but may smoother enter the channel. This reduces turbulences and supports a laminar flow in the channel. In other words: slanted means that the entering angle is larger than 90° so that the transit of the washing fluid from the inlet pipe into the channel is smoother than an entering at 90°, i.e. orthogonal. A proper angle may be in the range from 20° to 50°, in particular 135° +/- 5°. The entering may also be designed as a tangential entering, i.e. the inlet pipe may be bended so as to terminate at an angle of 150° to 180°, in particular 165° +/- 5°.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the second inlet opening arrangement comprises a second inlet pipe terminating in the channel and being slanted with respect to the channel such that the washing stream enters the channel slanted, wherein one of the first and second inlet pipes is adapted for entering an slanted upstream washing stream and the other of the first and second inlet pipes is adapted for entering a slanted downstream washing stream. Thus, it is possible to generate an upstream washing stream and a downstream washing stream. It is also possible to control the ratio between the upstream washing stream and a downstream washing stream so as to optimize the washing stream. The slanting applies mutatis mutandis as described above also for the second inlet pipe. It should be noted that between the first and second inlet pipes, in particular the first and second slanted inlet pipes a third inlet pipe may be provided for controlling the washing stream more exactly. The third inlet pipe may be a straight pipe, i.e. orthogonal to the channel.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first outlet opening terminates into an outlet pipe having a substantially rectangular cross section.

Thus it is possible to exit the gangue more exactly without disturbing the areas of collected magnetic particles. In particular the outlet pipe is narrower than the diameter of the channel, so that magnetic particles being collected at the side walls of the channel pass the first outlet, and only dispersion of non-magnetic particles flowing in the centre of the channel exit the channel. In particular the outlet pipe may have a larger dimension in the longitudinal direction of the channel than traverse thereto.

According to an exemplary embodiment, an outlet pipe of the first outlet opening comprises a constriction.

Thus, the flow can be influenced in the outlet pipe. In particular the constriction may be arranged at the transit from the channel into the outlet pipe. The constriction may have an extension into the longitudinal direction of the channel. The constriction may have a similar effect than the narrowed outlet pipe over the diameter of the channel.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the conveyor arrangement comprises a magnet arrangement outside the first channel wherein the magnet arrangement is movable at least partly along this first channel in the longitudinal direction by the conveyor arrangement.

Thus, it is possible to collect the magnetic particles by the moving magnet arrangement of the conveyor. The conveyor arrangement/magnet arrangement may have a single or a plurality of magnets. The magnets may be arranged equidistantly along a conveyor loop.

It should be noted that the moving magnet field instead of moving magnets, may also be gener- ated by a stationary controllable magnet arrangement, e.g. a plurality of electro magnets. The electro magnets may be controlled so as to generate a traveling magnetic field which may also serve as a conveyor for the magnetic particles. This may avoid moving elements and may allow a faster adaption of the traveling speed to the dispersion flow velocity.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the conveyor arrangement has a closed loop convey- ing track, wherein the first channel is arranged along the conveying track.

Thus the conveyor may be designed as an endless loop and the magnet(s) of the conveyor may travel along the channel extension. According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a second channel corresponding to the first channel, wherein the conveyor arrangement has a closed loop conveying track with a first conveying sub track and a second conveying sub-track, wherein the first channel is arranged along the first conveying sub track, and the second channel is arranged along the second conveying sub track.

Thus, two channels may be provided with a single conveyor arrangement. The first and second conveyor sub-tracks together may substantially contribute to the closed loop. The conveyor track may have a race track form, i.e. two long straight portions being connected by short half circular track portions. This allows providing straight channels along the straight track portions. The flow in the both channels is e.g. opposed, as the traveling direction of the magnets of the race track conveyor is also opposed in the first and second sub-tracks. It should be noted that the conveyor track may also be formed by three or four straight sub-tracks being connected with bended track portions do as to form a triangle or rectangle/square, so that three and respectively four channels may be arranged at the conveyor arrangement.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the magnet arrangement comprises a number of U- shaped yoke arrangements each traveling along the conveying track, wherein each of the yoke arrangements is capable of at least partly surrounding the channel and comprises two opposite legs being connected by a traverse section and has one or more magnets, so that magnet pole faces of each of the yoke arrangements are capable of facing the channel.

Thus, the magnets may circumference the channel so as to collect the magnetic particles. It should be understood that two opposite legs connected by a traverse section together may form an angular or a rounded yoke. U-shape does not exclude a C-shape, i.e. a narrower arrange- ment of the pole faces than the belly of the C or U. In particular when providing a rounded yoke, legs and traverse section may have a smooth transition. According to an exemplary embodiment, magnet pole faces of each of the yoke arrangements are capable of being arranged at opposite sides of the channel.

Thus, the pole faces may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the cross section of the channel. The separation may be more effective when providing two-pole faces at opposite sides of the channel when the magnets travel along the channel.

According to an exemplary embodiment, magnet pole faces of each of the yoke arrangements have a shape corresponding to the cross section of the channel at their side facing the channel.

Thus, the pole faces may have a smaller distance to the channel which may improve the separation process. In particular when providing a circular or elliptical or in general convex cross section of the channel, the pole faces may have a corresponding concave shape. This may cause problems when approaching or removing the magnets from the channel, as the pole face embrace the channel shape. However the yokes may be designed as opening and closing yokes or the channel may have a narrower form at the points of approach and remove, e.g. at the down tapered portion of the channel described above.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a permanent magnet is arranged in each leg of the yoke arrangement.

Thus, a high permanent magnetic field may be generated between the pole faces. It should be noted that also in the traverse section and/or in both legs permanent magnets may be provided. It is also possible to provide the permanent magnets at the end of the leg so that the permanent magnet(s) at the same time form the pole faces.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a controllable valve arrangement at at least one of the first inlet opening, the second inlet opening arrangement, the first outlet opening, and the second outlet opening to control a flow of the magnetic constituents and the nonmagnetic constituents through the first and the second outlet opening, respectively.

Thus, it is possible to conduct a more exact separation of magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents. It should be noted that the one, two or three inlet pipes of the second inlet opening arrangement may be provided with separate controllable valves each. According to an exemplary embodiment, the ratio of a velocity of the stream of the dispersion to the velocity of the conveyor arrangement is in the range from 1 :1 to 20:1 preferably in the range from 1.5:1 to 10:1 , and more preferably 2:1 +/- 20%. Thus, an optimal separation can be achieved.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a longitudinal axis of the channel is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane, in particular orthogonal with respect to a horizontal plane so that the longitudinal axis is parallel to a gravity direction.

Thus, it is possible to use a gravity effect for the separation process. This in particular applies for a U-form channel, i.e. e single channel at the conveyor arrangement in form of a race track. In this case the first inlet opening is arranged at a low point so that the dispersion flows against the gravity direction first and then turns into gravity direction, before non-magnetic particles en- ter the first outlet opening.

According to an exemplary embodiment, there is provided an arrangement or system comprising a plurality of apparatuses for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion as described above, wherein at least one of the first inlet opening, the second inlet opening ar- rangements, the first outlet opening, and the second outlet opening of each of the plurality of apparatuses together share a common conveying conduit, wherein the conveyor arrangements of each of the plurality of apparatuses operate synchronous.

Thus, it is possible to provide a single conveyor arrangement with a plurality of parallel running magnets for a plurality of channels. It should be noted that the plurality of apparatuses may be of the single channel type or of the double channel type or a mixture thereof.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the arrangement comprises an inflow channel for the dispersion, wherein each of the first inlet openings of the channels is connected to the inflow channel.

Thus, a central feeding may be realized. It should be noted that also the first outlets and the second outlets may have a common conduit, respectively, as well as the washing openings. Nevertheless, each or a part of the inlets and outlets may be provided with controllable valves so as to control the flow in each channel separately. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the channels of the plurality of apparatuses is arranged next to one another transverse to a longitudinal axis of the channels.

Thus, the arrangement may have a space-saving geometry.

According to an exemplary embodiment, there is intended a use of an apparatus as described above for separating magnetic constituents from a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents wherein the dispersion is an aqueous dispersion having a content of magnetic constituents in the range from 0.1 to 20% by weight based on the total weight of the dispersion.

According to an exemplary embodiment, there is intended a use of an apparatus as described above for separating magnetic constituents from a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents, wherein the dispersion is an aqueous dispersion having a content of nonmagnetic constituents in the range from 1 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the dispersion.

It should be noted that the above features may also be combined. The combination of the above features may also lead to synergetic effects, even if not explicitly described in detail.

These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following with reference to the following drawings.

Fig. 1 illustrates an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic con- stituents according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention with a single channel.

Fig. 2 illustrates a further embodiment of an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents with a double channel.

Fig. 3 illustrates a perspective cut-out of an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Fig. 4 illustrates a system having a plurality of apparatuses for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary build-up of a magnet arrangement/yoke arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 6 illustrates a further exemplary build-up of a magnet arrangement/yoke arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 7 illustrates a further exemplary build-up of a magnet arrangement/yoke arrangement according to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 illustrates a further embodiment of an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents with a double channel.

Fig. 9 illustrates an exemplary detail of an apparatus close to an outlet opening for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates an exemplary detail of an apparatus with respect to the cross section of the channel for separating magnetic constituents and non-magnetic constituents according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

Fig. 1 illustrates an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents, where the apparatus comprises at least one channel 1 having a first inlet opening 2 and at least two outlet openings 4, 5 and also a plurality of magnets 6 which can be moved outside the channel at least partly along this channel in a transfer direction 1 1 by a conveyor arrangement 7. The nonmagnetic constituents 8b are conveyed with the stream of the dispersion 8 into at least one first outlet opening 4 and the magnetic constituents 8a are conveyed by application of magnetic force into at least one se- cond outlet opening 5 and where the channel comprises a second inlet opening arrangement 3, 3a, 3b, 3c through which a washing stream 9, 9a, 9b flows into the channel 1 , and the magnetic constituents 8a are conveyed counter to the washing stream 9a into the at least one second outlet opening 5. The channel comprises a tapering 10 which tapers down close to the second outlet opening 5. This design allows for reducing the amount of water flowing through the second outlet opening 5 and concentration of the magnetic constituents 8a. The second outlet opening 5 may be only an output opening for magnetic constituents and preferably a minimum amount of washing stream 9b, and not for nonmagnetic constituents.

According to the present invention, the formulation "channel" describes the appearance of the apparatus. For the purposes of the present invention, the formulation "channel" describes an apparatus which in its simplest embodiment has a tubular shape, i.e. the channel has, accord- ing to the invention, a length which is greater than the width or diameter of the channel. The cross section of the channel can have a suitable shape, for example oval, annular, circular, square, rectangular, irregular or a combination of these shapes. The channel 1 according to the invention is designed so that it is able to separate magnetic constituents 8a from nonmagnetic constituents 8b in the pilot or on an industrial scale. One channel may typically have a volume flow through the reactor of at least 2 m ³ /h, particularly at least 5 m ³ /h, more particularly at least 10 m ³ /h. An arrangement according to Fig.4 with an arrangement of channels may have a volumetric flow of at least 50 m3/h, particularly at least 75 m3/h, more particularly at least 100 m3/h. The apparatus of the invention serves for separating magnetic constituents from an aqueous dispersion comprising these magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents. The magnetic constituents can have originally been magnetic or can be magnetized subsequently by binding magnetic particles to nonmagnetic particles. According to the invention, the process can be used generally for the separation of all magnetic constituents from nonmagnetic constituents which form a dispersion, e.g. in water. The dispersion can be the product of a magnetic ore separation or water purification. In an exemplary embodiment, the process of the invention serves to separate dispersions or aqueous dispersions which originate from the work-up of naturally occurring ores. In an exemplary preferred embodiment of the process of the invention, the dispersion or aqueous dispersion which is to be separated originates from a process for separating at least one first material from a mixture comprising this at least one first material and at least one second material, where the at least two materials are separated from one another by treating the mixture in aqueous dispersion with at least one magnetic particle, leading to the at least one first material and the at least one magnetic particle agglomerating and consequently forming the magnetic constituents of the aqueous dispersion and the at least one second material and the at least one magnetic particle not agglomerating, so that the at least one second material preferably forms the nonmagnetic constituents of the aqueous dispersion.

The agglomeration of the at least one first material and at least one magnetic particle in order to form the magnetic constituents generally occurs as a result of attractive interactions between these particles.

According to the invention, it is possible, for example, for the particles to agglomerate because the surface of the at least one first material is intrinsically hydrophobic or, optionally in addition, is made hydrophobic by treatment with at least one surface-active substance. Since the magnetic particles likewise themselves have a hydrophobic surface or, optionally in addition, are made hydrophobic, the particles agglomerate as a result of the hydrophobic interactions. Since the at least one second material preferably has a hydrophilic surface, the magnetic particles and the at least one second material do not agglomerate. A process for forming these magnetic agglomerates is described, for example, in WO 2009/030669 A1. For all details of this process, reference is expressly made to this patent text.

For the purposes of the present invention, "hydrophobic" means that the corresponding particle can subsequently be made hydrophobic by treatment with the at least one surface-active substance. It is also possible for an intrinsically hydrophobic particle to be additionally made hydrophobic by treatment with the at least one surface-active substance. For the purposes of the present invention, "hydrophobic" means that the surface of a corresponding "hydrophobic substance" or a "substance which has been made hydrophobic" has a contact angle of > 90° with water against air. For the purposes of the present invention, "hydrophilic" means that the surface of a corresponding "hydrophilic substance" has a contact angle of < 90° with water against air.

The formation of magnetic agglomerates, i.e. the magnetic constituents, which can be separated off by the process of the invention can also occur via other attractive interactions, for exam- pie via the pH-dependent zeta potential of the corresponding surfaces; see, for example, WO 2009/010422 and WO 2009/065802. Further methods of binding magnetic particles and particles which are to be separated off comprise use of molecules, as is described, for example, in WO 2010/007075. Another method of binding magnetic particles and particles which are to be separated off comprises use of molecules which are hydrophobic or hydrophilic as a function of the temperature, as described, for example, in WO 2010/007157. In an exemplary embodiment of the process of the invention, the at least one first material which together with magnetic particles forms the magnetic constituents is at least one hydrophobic metal compound or coal and the at least one second material which forms the nonmagnetic constituents is preferably at least one hydrophilic metal compound.

The at least one first material is particularly preferably a metal compound selected from the group consisting of sulfidic ores, oxidic and/or carbonate-comprising ores, for example azurite [Cu ₃ (C0 ₃ )2(OH)2] or malachite [Cu2[(OH) ₂ |C0 ₃ ]], and noble metals to which a surface-active compound can bind selectively in order to produce hydrophobic surface properties.

The at least one second material is particularly preferably a compound selected from the group consisting of oxidic and hydroxidic compounds, for example silicon dioxide Si0 ₂ , silicates, aluminosilicates, for example feldspars, for example albite Na(Si ₃ AI)O _e , mica, for example mus- covite KAl2[(OH,F) ₂ AISi30io], garnets (Mg, Ca, Fe ^!l ) ₃ (AI, Fe ^lll ) ₂ (Si0 ₄ ) ₃ , Al ₂ 0 ₃ , FeO(OH), FeC0 ₃ and further related minerals and mixtures thereof. This at least one hydrophilic metal compound is itself nonmagnetic and also does not become magnetic by binding of at least one magnetic particle. The at least one hydrophilic metal compound consequently forms, in a preferred embodiment, the nonmagnetic constituents of the dispersion which is to be separated. Examples of sulfidic ores which can be used according to the invention are, for example, selected from the group of copper ores consisting of covellite CuS, chalcopyrite (copper pyrite) CuFeS ₂ , bornite CusFeS , chalcocite (copper glance) Cu ₂ S and mixtures thereof and are also other sulfides such as molybdenum(IV) sulfide and pentlandite (NiFeS ₂ ). Suitable oxidic metal compounds which can be used according to the invention are preferably selected from the group consisting of silicon dioxide Si0 ₂ , silicates, aluminosilicates, for example feldspars, for example albite Na(Si ₃ AI)08, mica, for example muscovite

KAI ₂ [(OH,F) ₂ AISi ₃ Oio], garnets (Mg, Ca, Fe")3(AI, Fe ^MI ) ₂ (Si04) ₃ and further related minerals and mixtures thereof.

Accordingly, ore mixtures which have been obtained from mine deposits and have been treated with suitable magnetic particles are preferably treated by means of the apparatus of the invention. In a preferred embodiment of the process of the invention, the mixture which comprises at least one first material and at least one second material is present in the form of particles having a size of from 100 nm to 200 pm; see, for example, US 5,051 ,199. Preferred ore mixtures have a content of sulfidic materials of at least 0.005% by weight, preferably 0.5% by weight and particularly preferably at least 3% by weight.

Examples of sulfidic minerals which are present in the mixtures which can be treated according to the invention are those described above. Sulfides of metals other than copper can additionally be present in the mixtures, for example sulfides of iron, lead, zinc or molybdenum, i.e.

FeS/FeS ₂ , PbS, ZnS or MoS ₂ . Furthermore, oxidic compounds of metals and semimetals, for example silicates or borates, or other salts of metals and semimetals, for example phosphates, sulfates or oxides/hydroxides/carbonates, and further salts, for example azurite

[Cu3(C0 ₃ )2(OH) ₂ ], malachite [Cu ₂ [(OH) ₂ (C0 ₃ )]], barite (BaSC ), monazite ((La-Lu)P0 ₄ ), can be present in the ore mixtures which are to be treated according to the invention. Further examples of the at least one first material which is separated off by means of the apparatus of the invention are noble metals, for example Au, Pt, Pd, Rh, etc. which can be present in the native state, as alloy or as accompanying mineral.

To form the magnetic constituents of the preferably aqueous dispersion which is to be treated according to the invention, the at least one first material from the above group is brought into contact with at least one magnetic particle in order to obtain the magnetic constituents by binding or agglomeration. In general, the magnetic constituents can comprise all magnetic particles which are known to persons of average skill in the art.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one magnetic particle is selected from the group consisting of magnetic metals, for example iron, cobalt, nickel and mixtures thereof, ferromagnetic alloys of magnetic metals, for example NdFeB, SmCo and mixtures thereof, magnetic iron ox- ides, for example magnetite, maghemite, cubic ferrites of the general formula (I)

M2 ⁺ _x Fe ²⁺ i-xFe3 ⁺ ₂ 0 ₄ (!) where

M is selected from among Co, Ni, Mn, Zn and mixtures thereof and

x is≤ 1 , hexagonal ferrites, for example barium or strontium ferrite MFeeOig, where M = Ca, Sr, Ba and mixtures thereof. The magnetic particles can additionally have an outer layer, for example of Si0 ₂ . In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present patent application, the at least one magnetic particle is magnetite or cobalt ferrite Co ²⁺ _x Fe ²⁺ i _-x Fe ³⁺ 20 ₄ , where x≤ 1.

In a preferred embodiment, the magnetic particles used in the magnetic constituents are pre- sent in a size of from 100 nm to 200 μητι, particularly preferably from 1 to 50 μητ

In a further embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, the magnetic constituents which are to be separated are themselves magnetic particles. In this further embodiment, the magnetic particles are themselves separated from the dispersion. The magnetic particles which are separated in this further embodiment of the invention are preferably selected from the group of magnetic particles as described above. In this further embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus of the invention is preferably used to separate magnetic constituents, for example naturally occurring magnetite, from naturally occurring ores, preferably before further work-up of these ores.

The present invention preferably provides the apparatus of the present invention, where the magnetic constituents are selected from the group consisting of magnetic particles, agglomerates of magnetic particles and nonmagnetic particles and mixtures thereof. In the e.g. aqueous dispersion which is to be treated in the apparatus of the invention, the magnetic constituents, i.e. preferably magnetic particles and/or agglomerates of magnetic particles and ore mineral, are generally present in an amount which makes it possible for the aqueous dispersion to be transported or conveyed into the apparatus of the invention.

The e.g. aqueous dispersion which is to be treated according to the invention preferably com- prises from 0.1 to 20% by weight, particularly preferably from 0.2 to 10% by weight, very particularly preferably from 0.5 to 3% by weight, in each case based on the total dispersion, of magnetic constituents. In the e.g. aqueous dispersion which is to be treated by means of the apparatus of the invention, the nonmagnetic constituents are generally present in an amount which makes it possible for the aqueous dispersion to be transported or conveyed into the ap- paratus of the invention. The aqueous dispersion which is to be treated according to the invention preferably comprises from 1 to 50% by weight, particularly preferably from 10 to 45% by weight, very particularly preferably from 20 to 40% by weight, in each case based on the total dispersion, of nonmagnetic constituents. According to the invention, an e.g. aqueous dispersion is treated in the apparatus of the invention, i.e. the dispersion medium is essentially water, for example from 50 to 97% by weight, preferably from 55 to 90% by weight, very particularly preferably from 60 to 80% by weight, in each case based on the total dispersion. However, the apparatus can also be applied to nonaqueous dispersions or mixtures of solvents with water.

Consequently, further dispersion media, for example alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, propanols, for example n-propanol or isopropanol, butanols, for example n-butanol, isobutanol or tert-butanol, other organic solvents such as ketones, for example acetone, ethers, for example dimethyl ether, methyl tert-butyl ether, mixtures of aromatics such as naphtha or diesel or mixtures of at least two of the above solvents can be present in addition to or in place of water. The dispersion media which are present in addition to water are present in an amount of up to 97% by weight, preferably up to 90% by weight, particularly preferably up to 80% by weight, in each case based on the total dispersion.

The dispersion which is separated by means of the apparatus of the present invention has a solids content of, for example, from 3 to 50% by weight, preferably from 10 to 45%.

The present invention therefore also provides the apparatus of the present invention, where the dispersion which is to be treated has a solids content of from 3 to 50% by weight. The amounts indicated for the individual components which are present in the aqueous dispersion which is to be treated according to the invention in each case add up to 100% by weight. In a particularly embodiment, an aqueous dispersion which comprises no further dispersion medium in addition to water is treated by means of the apparatus of the invention.

In a further embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, as can be seen for example in Fig. 1 , the at least first inlet opening 2 is present at one end of the channel 1 and the at least two outlet openings 4, 5 are present at the other end of the channel. In a further embodiment, there is the at least second inlet opening 5 which is arranged downstream of the first outlet opening 4 in such a way as to rinse the magnetic constituents before they reach the at least second outlet opening 5. This feature according to the present invention makes very efficient and complete separation of the magnetic constituents from nonmagnetic constituents possible.

As illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 5 the apparatus comprises at least one magnet arrangement 6, preferably with two magnets 6d, most preferably with two magnets 6d and one yoke, to which the magnets are attached and with which the magnetic forces are concentrated. The conveyor arrangement 7 for the at least one magnet arrangement 6 is preferably a circumferential con- veyor arrangement 7. The conveyor arrangement 7 is e,g, a conveyor belt or a transport chain to which the magnet arrangements 6 are fastened by suitable accommodation devices or holders. The conveyor belt or transport chain runs through 360°, so that continuous movement of the magnets 6 is ensured. The conveyor arrangements 7 as illustrated in Fig. 4 are each driven around 360° by suitable drive motors.

The conveyor arrangement 7 can be installed along the entire length of the channel 1 or only along part of the channel 1. The conveyor arrangement is e.g. installed along the entire length of the channel 1 from the first inlet opening 2 to the second outlet opening 5, as can be seen in Fig. 1.

The channel 1 is e.g. installed circumferentially on the conveyor arrangement 7 or two channels 1a, 1 b are arranged on the side of the conveyor arrangement 7 facing the magnet arrangements 6, as can be seen in Fig. 2 and Fig. 8. Fig. 3 illustrates a detailed perspective view. The magnetic constituents 8a which are attracted by the magnetic field are conveyed by the magnet arrangements 6 attached to the conveyor arrangement 7 in the direction of the stream of the dispersion 8 to the second outlet opening 5. The present invention therefore provides the apparatus 100, where the direction of movement of the stream of the dispersion 8 and the direction of movement of the conveyor arrangement 7 along a conveyor track 17 are preferably parallel and along the longitudinal direction 11 of the channel 1.

The moving magnet arrangements 6 produce a moving magnetic field which travels along the longitudinal axis 11 of the channel 1. In addition, it is possible for magnetic constituents 8a which are concentrated over the length of the channel 1 to be actively conveyed along the channel 1 to the second outlet opening 5. In the region of the second outlet opening 5, the magnetic transport section ends, i.e. the magnets 6 are removed from their direct vicinity to the channel 1 by the conveyor arrangement 7, so that the magnetic field generated by the respective magnet 6 weakens at this point to such an extent that the magnetic constituents 8a which were previously fixed thereby are released and can be taken off via the second outlet opening 5, usually via the washing stream 9, 9b, i.e. the magnetic constituents 8a are effectively flushed away but are separated from the other constituents 8b comprised in the remaining dispersion 8. The second inlet opening arrangement 3 may comprise a first inlet pipe 3a terminating in the channel 1 and being slanted with respect to the channel 1 such that the upstream washing stream 9a enters the channel 1 slanted, as can be seen in Fig. 1. Accordingly, the second inlet opening arrangement 3 may comprise a second inlet pipe 3b terminating in the channel 1 and also being slanted with respect to the channel 1 such that also the downstream washing stream 9b enters the channel 1 slanted. The washing liquid may smoother enter the channel. This reduces turbulences and supports a laminar flow in the channel. In Fig. 1 the slanted angle is about 135°. It should be noted that the entering may also be designed as a tangential entering, i.e. the inlet pipe may be bended so as to terminate at an angle of almost 180°. The upstream washing stream and downstream washing stream, in particular when being separately controlled allows optimizing the washing stream. It should be noted that between the first and second inlet pipes, in particular the first and second slanted inlet pipes a third inlet pipe 3c may be provided for controlling the washing stream more exactly. The third inlet pipe may be a straight pipe, i.e. orthogonal to the channel 1. The inlet pipes 3, 3a, 3b, 3c may be controlled by a valve 14b, wherein all pipes may have a separate valve although not explicitly illustrated in Fig. 1.

The first outlet opening 4 terminates into an outlet pipe 4a. This outlet pipe 4a may have a sub- stantially rectangular cross section, as can be seen in the perspective detail of Fig. 1. This allows exiting the gangue more exactly without disturbing the areas of collected magnetic particles. In particular the outlet pipe 4a is narrower than the here circular diameter of the channel 1 , as can be also seen in the perspective detail of Fig. 1. The magnetic particles 8a being collected at the side walls of the channel 1 pass the first outlet 4, and only dispersion of non- magnetic particles 8a flowing in the centre of the channel 1 exit the channel. In particular the outlet pipe 4 may have a larger dimension in the longitudinal direction of the channel 1 than traverse thereto, i.e. with an upright rectangular cross section, as can be seen in the perspective detail in Fig. 1. This can also achieved by a constriction. In particular the constriction may be arranged at the transit from the channel into the outlet pipe. The constriction may have an extension into the longitudinal direction of the channel. The constriction may have a similar effect than the narrowed outlet pipe over the diameter of the channel. The perspective detail of Fig. 1 illustrates only a constriction 4b on the far side, however, the constriction may also be arranged on both sides. When providing a constriction on both sides, the outlet pipe 4 may also have the same width than the diameter of the channel, as the constriction narrows the passage to avoid magnetic particles from the outlet pipe 4.

The movement of the magnets 6 proposed according to the invention and thus the resulting generation of a magnetic field moving along the longitudinal axis 1 1 of the channel 1 permits, especially advantageously, continuous supply of dispersion 8 to the channel 1.

Fig. 4 illustrates an arrangement 1 10 with a plurality of apparatuses 100. In Fig. 4 the apparatuses 100 share a common inlet conduit 13. It should be noted that the apparatuses may also share a common first outlet conduit and/or second outlet conduit, although not explicitly illustrated. Although Fig. 4 illustrates a double channel apparatus arrangement, the common shared conduit may also be provided for the single channel apparatus arrangements. A double channel apparatus is illustrated in Fig. 8. The magnets 6 used according to the invention can be any magnets 6 which are known to persons of average skill in the art, for example permanent magnets 6d, electromagnets 6e and combinations thereof, as can be seen in Fig. 5, Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Permanent magnets 6d may be of relevance because the quantity of energy consumed by the apparatus of the invention can be reduced significantly compared to the use of electromagnets 6e. This embodiment gives a particularly energy-saving apparatus 100 and an energy-saving process.

In an embodiment, a plurality of magnet arrangements 6 is arranged on the channel 1. The number of magnet arrangements 6 depends on the size of the individual magnets 6d, 6e and on the size of the channel 1. An illustrative number of magnets arranged on the channel 1 is e.g. 40, or 60.

The polarities of the magnets 6d which are preferably arranged on the channel can be set in any desired way. For example, all polarities of the magnets 6d can be set in the same direction. In another embodiment, the polarities of the magnets may alternate. In an embodiment, the magnets 6d are arranged in an alternating sequence of, for example, in each case 3 magnets having the same direction of the polarity followed by, for example, a magnet having the opposite polarity.

The magnet arrangements 6 and the channels 1 are arranged so that the gap between the outer wall of the channel 1 or pipe and the magnets/pole faces 6f is suitable for obtaining an advantageous magnetic field at a position within the channel 1 where the magnetic constituents 8a are to be collected, e.g. on the inside of the outer wall of the channel 1. An illustrative gap between the outer wall of the channel and the magnet arrangements is minimized to e.g. less than 5 mm, particularly less than 2 mm, in order to utilize a maximum force of the magnets.

The distance over which the magnetic forces act on the magnetic constituents is limited by the behavior of the at least one magnet. An illustrative distance which determines the diameter of the channel when using standard strong permanent magnets can be 80 mm, particularly 60 mm, more particularly 45 mm. The diameter or height of the channel can therefore be in the range from 20 to 100 mm, particularly from 30 to 60 mm, for example 45 mm. At these diameters, a length of the channel is e.g. from 1.25 to 12.5 m, particularly from 2 to 9 m, more particularly from 3 to 6 m. As can be seen in Fig. 5 the magnet arrangement 6 preferably comprises a yoke 6a with a transversal section 6b and two legs 6c. Two permanent magnets 6d may be provided in a U-shaped magnet arrangement in which the magnets are arranged on legs 6c located opposite one another and the yoke 6a forms a transverse element 6b connecting the legs 6c, so that the magnet arrangement 6 at least partly surrounds the channel 1. The magnet arrangement 6 may be mounted to the conveyor arrangement 7. As can be seen in Fig. 6, the channel 1 may have an elliptic cross section. The pole faces 6f may have corresponding concave shapes. Corre- s ponding shapes of the pole faces 6f can also be applied to circular cross section channels, as can be seen in Fig. 7. Fig. 6 illustrates a single permanent magnet 6d. The Fig. 6 magnet may also be provided with two permanent magnets 6d, as of Fig. 5. The permanent magnets at the same time may form the straight or convex pole faces 6f. As can be seen in Fig. 7 the yoke 6a can have a rounded form. This applies for straight and convex pole faces 6f. All types of yokes and pole faces may be combined with an electro magnet 6e, as illustrated in Fig. 7.

The yoke can preferably comprise iron or consist of iron, a magnetizable, cheap and easily worked material. Particularly when using one or two magnets 6d, 6e together with a yoke, the U-shaped magnet arrangement 6 can be open to one side. This allows better access to the channel 1 even in the region of the magnetic action. Thus, the yoke can connect the poles facing away from the separation channel of two magnets located opposite one another. In embodiments having two magnets located opposite one another, two variants in respect of the positioning thereof are con- ceivable, and both can be provided according to the invention.

Accordingly, the invention provides, in addition to the simple use of one or more magnets, for the magnets to be arranged together with a yoke in a U-shaped magnet arrangement in order to minimize leakage field losses and thus to improve the field distribution within the channel. In the case of one or more magnets arranged only on one side of the channel, the yoke and thus also proportions of field in the form of a magnetic flux can be passed through the yoke to the opposite side of the channel in order, ideally, to close the magnetic circuit but in any case to achieve improved gradient formation. If magnets or magnet combinations arranged on a plurality of sides of the separation channel are joined by means of a yoke in such a way that the poles facing away from the channel each join the yoke, an increase in the magnetic induction and also an increase in the magnetic field gradients and with it the magnetic force can be achieved. It may once again be pointed out here that the forces acting on the magnetic constituents scale both with the magnetic field gradient and also with the magnetic field strength, so that provision of a yoke improves the separation action in every described case. A flow velocity of the dispersion 8 which is to be treated of≥ 200 mm/s, particularly≥ 400 mm/s, more particularly > 600 mm/s, is achieved by the apparatus of the invention.

The velocity of the conveyor arrangement which can be moved along the channel is e.g. set in a fixed ratio to the flow velocity of the dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents. This ratio of the velocities of the flow of the dispersion and the velocity of the conveyor arrangement is, for example, 2:1 , meaning that the velocity of the dispersion is twice the velocity of the conveyor arrangement; the ratio is greater, particularly from 1 :1 to 20:1 , more particularly from 2:1 to 10:1.

According to the invention, a "washing stream" is a stream which comprises neither magnetic constituents nor nonmagnetic constituents. In a particularly embodiment, the washing stream 9, 9a, 9b is water. However, it can also be any of the above-described combinations of water and solvents. The washing stream 9, 9a, 9b according to the invention is e.g. added to the stream of the dispersion 8 downstream 9b of the outlet 4 of the nonmagnetic constituents by e.g. nozzles, feed lines, perforated plates or combinations thereof.

The washing stream 9 has at least two functions: On the one hand it ensures a cleaning of the magnetic constituents 8a by back flushing the section between the first outlet 4 for nonmagnetic constituents 8b and the inlet 3, 3a, 3b, 3c of the washing stream 9. On the other hand it ensures a forward velocity at the second outlet 5 high enough to transport the magnetic constituents 8a away from the magnet arrangements 6.

The second outlet 5 (for magnetic constituents) is designed in such a way that the forward flush- ing of water 9b is minimized and the magnetic forces decrease to facilitate re-dispersing the magnetic constituents. This is achieved by e.g. a coaxial reduction 10 in diameter parallel to the longitudinal axis 11 of the magnet arrangements 6, with which the distance to the magnets 6 is increased and the flow velocity at a fixed volumetric flow rate increases, allowing for the magnetic constituents 8a to be re-dispersed and transported away from the separation apparatus 6, 7, once separation has taken place. The reduction in diameter is especially advantageous for processes with water limitations, because it allows reaching the critical (minimum) velocity for dispersion of solids with a minimum amount of water, preventing settling and associated plugging issues. This can be seen in Fig. 9, where the channel 1 tapers at tapering 10 into outlet 5. The magnetic constituents 8a are conveyed by the magnets 6 with the pole faces 6f facing the channel 1. When traveling along the channel 1 , the magnets 6 convey the magnetic constituents 8a into the tapering, so that the constituents 8 concentrate before entering the outlet 5. Fig. 10 illustrates how the magnet arrangements 6 can approach at the first inlet side 2 to the channel 1 , even if having a tight corresponding pole face 6 and channel outer surface. The channel close to the inlet opening 2 may have a smaller diameter than the smallest distance between the pole faces 6f as can be seen on the right side. The channel may "enter" the yoke. At passages, where the yoke already surrounds the channel 1 , the cross sectional shape of the channel 1 changes from e.g. circular or upright oval - right - to traverse oval - left -. Thus, it is possible to bring the yokes around the channel 1 and to have a tight facing of the convex pole faces 6f. At the end of the channel 1 , close to outlet 5, the channel 1 tapers, so that the yokes can remove from the channel without collision, as can be seen in Fig. 9.

According to the invention, the dispersion which is to be treated is preferably conveyed through the channel by means of a pump P1. After the process of the invention has been carried out, the resulting streams comprising the magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents are preferably conveyed by means of pressure-loss-controlled flow. The pressure losses of both outlet streams are controlled in this invention by any device known to those skilled in the art, e.g. valves or orifice plates 14, 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d. In particular, valves or orifice plates are used to control the flow of the magnetic constituents and the nonmagnetic constituents through the first and the second outlet opening 4, 5, respectively. The apparatus of the present invention can generally be made of any material which is known by persons of average skill in the art to be able to be employed for such an apparatus, preferably nonmagnetic materials like aluminum, polymers or stainless steel particularly preferably nonmagnetic stainless steels for supporting elements and polymers for the channels. The apparatus itself and/or the channel according to the invention can in principle be arranged in any orientation which appears suitable to persons of average skill in the art and ensures a sufficiently high separating power for the separation of magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents, as long as the channel is arranged in such a way that nonmagnetic constituents are aided by the stream of the dispersion in going into the at least one first outlet opening and magnetic constituents are forced by magnetic force counter to the washing stream into at least one second outlet opening. Fig. 1 illustrates an upright position with respect to a horizontal plane 90. In an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus and/or the channel according to the present invention are arranged so that the longitudinal axis 11 of the channel preferably forms an angle in the range from 0° to 90°, particularly preferably from 60 to 90°, with the horizontal plane 90, for example the floor for fastening the apparatus or the channel. In general, the individual streams, i.e. the stream of the dispersion and the washing stream, can be conveyed in the apparatus of the invention by means of apparatuses which are known to persons of average skill in the art, for example by means of pumps. The present invention therefore preferably provides the apparatus of the present invention, where the stream of the dispersion is achieved by means of at least one pump.

According to the invention, a single apparatus as described above can be used to separate magnetic constituents from a dispersion comprising magnetic constituents and nonmagnetic constituents. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, more than one apparatus 100 according to the present invention can be arranged and operated in parallel. This means that the dispersion 8 which is to be separated flows simultaneously through more than one channel 1 according to the invention. The present invention therefore provides an arrangement 110 according to the present invention which comprises a plurality of apparatuses 100 for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion 8 as described above, where at least two channels 1 are arranged next to one another transverse to the longitudinal axis of the channels and are operated in parallel, as can be seen in Fig. 4. In a further preferred embodiment, at least 10, particularly more than 30, more particularly at least 50, channels 1 / apparatuses 100 according to the invention are arranged and operated in parallel. Persons of average skill in the art will know how these channels 1 are to be connected in order for them to be arranged and operated in parallel. Preference is given to providing at least one inflow channel 13 for the dispersions to which the first inlet openings 2 of the channels 1 are connected.

In an embodiment, every at least two outlet openings 5 of all channels 1 present are in each case connected in order to give at least two joint outlet openings for the arrangement. In a fur- ther embodiment, every at least two inlet openings of all apparatuses present are in each case connected in order to give at least two joint inlet openings for the arrangement. Persons of average skill in the art will know how these connections are to be achieved. For example, to have a comparable pressure in all places in the apparatus formed by more than one channel according to the invention, the diameter of the joint inlet openings and/or outlet openings can be matched.

In an embodiment, the magnetic constituents present in the dispersion accumulate at least partly, preferably in their entirety, i.e. in a ratio of preferably at least 60% by weight, particularly preferably at least 90% by weight, very particularly preferably at least 99% by weight at the side of the channel which is opposite the at least one magnet as a result of the magnetic field. This accumulation of the magnetic constituents, which is preferred according to the invention, leads to a compact mass which comprises dispersion medium, is present on the outer wall of the channel space and is moved in one direction by the conveyor arrangement. However, this mass comprises included nonmagnetic constituents which, were they to remain there, would lead to particular disadvantages in respect of efficiency and costs, e.g. blockages and associated costs and downtimes. As a result of the preferred treatment according to the invention of the magnetic constituents, in particular the compact mass of the magnetic constituents which is present on the outer wall of the channel, with a washing stream, this mass is at least partly locally covered with a layer of this stream. Included nonmagnetic constituents are preferably set free in this manner. The nonmagnetic constituents liberated are preferably transported away with the washing stream, preferably counter to the direction of movement of the conveyor arrangement, while the nonmagnetic constituents are moved by the magnetic field present.

The general statements and preferred embodiments as mentioned in respect of the apparatus and the process of the present invention also apply to the use of the use of the apparatus of the invention for separating magnetic constituents from a dispersion comprising magnetic and non- magnetic constituents.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents, where the apparatus comprises at least one channel 1 having a first inlet opening 2 and at least two outlet openings 4, 5 and also a plurality of magnets 6 which can be moved outside the channel 1 at least partly along this channel 1 in a transfer direction by means of a conveyor arrangement 7, where the nonmagnetic constituents are conveyed with the stream of the dispersion 8 into at least one first outlet opening 4 and the magnetic constituents are conveyed by application of magnetic force into at least one second outlet opening 5, wherein the channel 1 comprises a second inlet opening 3 through which a washing stream 9 flows into the channel 1 , and the magnetic constituents are conveyed counter to the washing stream 9 into the at least one second outlet opening 5.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the channel 1 tapers down 10 close to the second outlet opening 5.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the channel 1 is tubular.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the conveyor arrangement 7 is a circumferential conveyor arrangement 7, where the channel 1 is arranged circumferentially or two channels are each arranged on the side of the conveyor arrangement 7 facing the magnet 6. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the magnets 6 are arranged by means of a yoke 6a in a U-shaped magnet arrangement in which the magnets 6 are arranged on opposite legs and the yoke 6a forms a transverse element connecting the legs so that the magnet arrangement at least partly surrounds the channel 1.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the yoke 6a contacts the two magnets at two opposite ends. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the yoke 6a extends transverse to the legs and is arranged below or between the legs or has a U-shape, with the legs being arranged above or at the side of the yoke 6a.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the legs and/or the yoke have a shape corresponding to the contour of the channel 1 at their side facing the channel 1.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the legs extend at an angle to the transverse element. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the longitudinal axis of the channel 11 forms an angle in the range from 0° to 90° with the plane.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect valves or orifice plates are used to control the flow of the magnetic constituents and the nonmagnetic constituents through the first and the second outlet opening 4, 5, respectively.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the dispersion is an aqueous dispersion having a content of magnetic constituents in the range from 0.1 to 20% by weight based on the total weight of the dispersion.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the dispersion is an aqueous dispersion having a content of nonmagnetic constituents in the range from 1 to 50% by weight based on the total weight of the dispersion. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the ratio of the velocity of the stream of the dispersion 8 to the velocity of the conveyor arrangement is in the range from 1 :1 to 20:1. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect there is provided an arrangement comprising a plurality of apparatuses for separating magnetic constituents from a stream of a dispersion according to the further aspect.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the arrangement comprises a plurality of channels 1 which are arranged next to one another transverse to the longitudinal axis of the channel 1. According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect at least one inflow channel 13 for the dispersion is provided and the first inlet openings 2 of the channels 1 are connected thereto.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect the arrangement comprises a conveyor arrangement 7 for the magnets 6 or the magnet arrangement or a conveyor arrangement on which all magnets 6 or magnet arrangements are arranged for each channel 1.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the further aspect it is intended to use an apparatus according to the further aspect for separating magnetic constituents from a dispersion comprising magnetic and nonmagnetic constituents.

It should be noted that the term 'comprising' does not exclude other elements or steps and the 'a' or 'an' does not exclude a plurality. Also elements described in association with the different embodiments may be combined.

It should be noted that the reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

Reference list:

1 channel

1a sub-channel

1b sub-channel

2 first inlet opening, dispersion feeding opening

3 second inlet opening, washing fluid feeding opening 3a feeding pipe for upstream washing stream

3b feeding pipe for downstream washing stream

3c middle feeding pipe for washing stream

4 first outlet opening, gangue outlet opening

4a outlet pipe of first outlet opening

4b constriction in outlet pipe of first outlet opening

5 second outlet opening, ore outlet opening

6 magnet arrangement

6a yoke

6b traverse section

6c leg

6d permanent magnet

6e electro magnet

6f pole face

7 conveyor arrangement

8 dispersion of magnetic/non-magnetic constituents 8a magnetic constituents

8b non-magnetic constituents

9 washing stream

9a upstream washing stream

9b downstream washing stream

10 tapering

11 longitudinal axis of channel

12 struts

13 common conveying conduit, common inflow channel,

14 valve arrangement

14a dispersion feeding valve

14b washing fluid feeding valve

14c gangue outlet valve

14d ore outlet valve 17 conveying track

17a first conveying sub-track

17b second conveying sub-track

90 horizontal plane

100 apparatus

110 system of a plurality of apparatuses

P1 Pump