In gold processing plants, the gold grinding mill (wet pan mill) is one of the most important pieces of equipment for ore grinding and mineral liberation. However, continuous operation under high load conditions can lead to increased energy consumption and excessive wear, which not only raises operational costs but also shortens equipment lifespan.
This article discusses several practical tips to help operators improve efficiency, reduce energy loss, and minimize wear and tear in daily production.
1. Maintain Proper Feeding Rate and Pulp Density
Overfeeding or uneven feeding is one of the main causes of high energy consumption.
Keep the ore-to-water ratio stable to ensure smooth rotation and uniform grinding pressure.
Avoid feeding oversized particles that can cause impact load and increase roller wear.
Regularly check the slurry level — too thick slurry increases resistance; too thin slurry reduces grinding efficiency.
A consistent feeding rate ensures balanced operation, lower vibration, and optimized power usage.
2. Use High-Quality Grinding Rollers and Liners
The grinding rollers and basin liners are the core wear parts of a wet pan mill.
Choose alloy steel or high-chromium wear-resistant materials to extend service life.
Ensure the rollers are properly aligned with the basin to avoid uneven pressure distribution.
Periodically check for surface cracks or edge chipping — early replacement prevents cascading damage.
Quality wear parts may seem costly upfront but can reduce long-term maintenance and power losses by up to 20%.
3. Optimize Transmission and Lubrication System
Frictional loss from transmission parts (such as gearboxes, shafts, and bearings) is another source of wasted energy.
Keep lubrication oil clean and sufficient; replace it according to manufacturer intervals.
Avoid over-lubrication, which can cause overheating or seal failure.
Inspect the gearbox for alignment and abnormal noise — these are early signs of mechanical inefficiency.
A well-maintained lubrication system ensures smoother power transmission and lower energy consumption.
4. Control Grinding Time and Speed
Long grinding cycles do not always lead to better results.
Excessive grinding time increases both power use and mechanical wear.
Adjust the rotation speed and grinding duration based on ore hardness and desired fineness.
Modern mills can be equipped with automatic timers or power monitoring devices to prevent unnecessary operation.
In practice, optimizing grinding parameters can save 10–15% of total energy consumption per shift.
5. Keep the Machine Clean and Well-Balanced
Dust, residue, or uneven material accumulation can cause imbalance during operation, resulting in vibration, noise, and mechanical stress.
Clean the basin after each shift to remove residual ore and slurry.
Check anchor bolts, shaft bearings, and support frames for tightness.
Regular balancing ensures stable operation and protects both mechanical and electrical components.
6. Regular Preventive Maintenance
Instead of waiting for failures, establish a preventive maintenance schedule.
Inspect the motor, belt tension, and electrical connections regularly.
Monitor temperature rise in the bearings and gearbox.
Record energy consumption data to identify anomalies early.
Planned maintenance not only prevents costly downtime but also extends the equipment’s operating life significantly.
Conclusion
Improving energy efficiency and reducing wear in a gold grinding mill is not just about saving electricity — it’s about maintaining long-term stability and profitability.
By adopting scientific operation methods, using high-quality components, and practicing regular maintenance, operators can effectively lower costs, reduce downtime, and improve overall grinding performance.
As gold processing continues to modernize, energy-saving and durability will remain the key factors driving competitiveness in the mining industry.