Introduce
In gravity separation, the jig machine (jig concentrator) is one of the most widely used and efficient equipment for separating heavy minerals from light gangue. Its unique working principle—based on pulsating water flow—enables precise stratification and recovery of valuable minerals such as gold, tin, tungsten, manganese, and iron ore.
1. What Is a Jig Machine?
A jig machine is a gravity-based separator that uses pulsating water flow to separate minerals by their density difference. The process does not require chemicals or complex settings, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution in mineral processing plants.
Common models include diaphragm jigs, piston jigs, and moving screen jigs, each optimized for specific mineral types and particle sizes.
2. The Principle of Pulsating Water Flow
The heart of a jig concentrator is its pulsation mechanism. During operation, water flows upward and downward through the jig bed in a rhythmic motion. This alternating water pulse causes mineral particles to move and rearrange according to their density:
Upward stroke: Water lifts the mineral bed, reducing friction and allowing lighter particles to move upward.
Downward stroke: As the water subsides, heavier particles settle faster toward the bottom due to gravity.
This continuous pulsation creates a natural density stratification, where heavy minerals concentrate at the bottom and lighter gangue stays on top.
3. The Process of Mineral Layering
Inside the jig bed (usually made of steel or rubber screen), minerals undergo three main stages of layering:
Loose layer formation – Water pulsation loosens the packed particles.
Density stratification – Heavier particles sink while lighter ones rise.
Selective discharge – Concentrates and tailings are separated through different outlets.
This simple but effective process ensures high recovery rate and clean separation, even for fine or medium-sized particles (typically 0.2–20mm).
4. Advantages of Jig Separation
High recovery efficiency for heavy minerals
Low energy consumption and simple operation
Eco-friendly, no chemical reagents required
Wide application in gold, tin, tungsten, manganese, and iron ore beneficiation
5. Applications in Mining
Jig concentrators are extensively used in placer gold mining, tungsten ore separation, and manganese upgrading. They are often combined with crushers, classifiers, shaking tables, or centrifugal concentrators to form complete gravity separation systems.
Conclusion
The jig machine proves that sometimes, simplicity leads to efficiency.
By harnessing the natural behavior of pulsating water flow, it achieves effective mineral layering and separation — a fundamental step in modern gravity concentration technology.