What Are the Three Main Gravity Separation Techniques for Gold Recovery?

2025-08-12

Gravity separation is one of the oldest and most effective methods for recovering gold. The three main gravity separation techniques for gold recovery are:

1. Panning

• Description: This is the simplest and oldest method of gravity separation. It involves using a shallow, round pan to wash sediment-containing gold in water. The lighter materials are washed away, leaving the denser gold behind.
• Applications: Used by individual prospectors for small-scale recovery, especially in alluvial deposits.
• Advantages: Low-cost and does not require specialized equipment.
• Limitations: Low throughput and labor-intensive.

2. Sluicing

• Description: A sluice box is a long, narrow channel with riffles on the bottom. Water flows through the sluice, carrying sediment. The riffles trap heavier particles like gold while lighter materials are washed away.
• Applications: Commonly used in placer mining operations for medium-scale recovery.
• Advantages: Higher recovery rates compared to panning. Can process larger quantities of material.
• Limitations: Requires a consistent water flow and periodic cleaning of the riffles.

3. Centrifugal Concentration

• Description: Centrifugal forces are used to concentrate gold by spinning material in a bowl or cone. Gold, being heavier, is separated from lighter gangue materials.
• Applications: Widely used in modern mining, particularly for fine gold recovery.
• Advantages: Highly efficient for fine gold separation. Can process large volumes of material.
• Limitations: More expensive equipment and requires power to operate.

These methods are often used in combination to maximize gold recovery, depending on the deposit type and scale of operation.

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