XRT Trona Ore Sorting for High-Purity Beneficiation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing trona ore processing methods struggle to efficiently separate high-grade trona ore from waste and low-grade material, leading to increased processing costs and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

Employing sensor-based ore sorting systems that utilize X-ray transmission (XRT) technology to identify and separate trona ore particles based on their atomic density, combined with beneficiation systems to remove gangue material, ensuring high-grade ore is processed further while waste is ejected.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional ore processing methods are used, then processing capacity is maintained, but ore purity is low and processing costs are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveore purityVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by implementing sensor-based sorting and beneficiation systems before the main processing stage. Sensors detect and identify high-grade trona ore particles in advance, allowing them to be separated from waste and low-grade material prior to further processing. This pre-sorting action increases the purity of the feed material that enters subsequent processing equipment, thereby reducing processing costs and improving overall efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical sorting methods with sensor-based detection systems. Instead of relying solely on mechanical means to separate ore particles, the system uses sensors (such as optical, acoustic, or electromagnetic sensors) to detect and identify high-grade trona ore particles. This substitution enables more precise and efficient separation, increasing both ore purity and processing effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If more beneficiation systems are added to increase ore purity, then processing costs increase, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveore purityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the ore processing system into distinct functional modules: sensor-based detection systems, separation systems, and processing systems. Each module performs a specific function in the ore beneficiation process, allowing for modular design and easier maintenance. The segmentation enables the system to achieve high ore purity through coordinated action of specialized modules without creating unnecessary complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary systems that facilitate the transition between different processing stages. Sensors act as intermediaries by detecting and identifying high-grade ore particles, then transmitting this information to separation systems. This intermediary detection and identification layer enables precise separation without requiring overly complex direct processing systems, thus managing system complexity while achieving high purity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If waste and low-grade material are not effectively removed, then processing costs decrease, but the economic value of the ore is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing cost efficiencyVSAvoidore grade
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor and detect the grade of ore particles in real-time. This feedback information is used to dynamically adjust the separation process, ensuring that high-grade trona ore is efficiently separated from waste and low-grade material. The feedback loop enables the system to optimize both processing cost efficiency and ore grade by adapting to varying ore compositions and maintaining high separation effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system significantly enhances the economic value of trona ore by increasing the purity of the feed, reducing processing costs, and minimizing environmental impact through reduced water and reagent usage, while extending mine life and lowering energy consumption.

Implementation Method 1

sensor-based ore sorting systems that utilize X-ray transmission (XRT) technology to identify and separate trona ore particles based on their atomic density

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectX-ray transmission: X-Ray

Implementation Method 2

rejected ore can be ejected with a high-pressure air jet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHigh-pressure air jet: Jet

Data Source

PatentUS20250289032A1Processing of trona ores using sensor-based ore sorting systems
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 TATA CHEMICALS NORTH AMERICA INC
  • US20250289032A1 patent drawing
  • US20250289032A1 patent drawing
  • US20250289032A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An ore-sorting system includes a trona ore screen system including an ore crusher and a filter. The ore-sorting system further includes a beneficiation system having a sensor and a separator. The separator includes an identification system configured to accept or reject ore. The accepted ore is deposited in a bin and the rejected ore is ejected with a high-pressure air jet.