摘要 |
A method and apparatus for processing particulate material such as coal, and also for measuring the efficiency of separation of the coal is disclosed. Particulate material is supplied to a separator such as a heavy medium device containing a dense medium ( 6 ). A parameter of the device ( 6 ) indicative of separation cut point is measured. The parameter may be density of the medium, flow rate of material or pressure of feed as well as medium to coal ratio. Measurements of these parameters are made over a time period and, from the measurements, an induced value indicative of separating efficiency is determined. The induced value provides a measure of separation efficiency and also provides a value which can be compared with a predetermined value so that an alarm can be generated if the value departs from the predetermined value by a predetermined amount. |