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Polyurethane Screens for Zinc Processing | Maximize Recovery Efficiency

Advanced Screening Solutions for Zinc Ore with 5-8X Longer Lifespan

2026-01-12

Optimizing Zinc Processing: How Polyurethane Screens Maximize Recovery in Every Screening Stage

Zinc remains a critical industrial metal with growing applications in galvanizing, alloys, and renewable energy storage. As ore grades decline and processing costs rise, efficient screening technology becomes a decisive factor in maintaining profitability. In zinc processing, where even a 1% improvement in recovery can translate to millions in annual revenue, every screening stage presents both challenge and opportunity.

Global Zinc Processing Trends:

Increasing treatment of complex, polymetallic ores

Higher throughput requirements with finer grinding

Strict environmental regulations on water usage and tailings

Demand for higher-purity concentrates (>55% Zn)

The Three Critical Screening Stages in Zinc Processing

Stage 1: Primary Screening of ROM Ore (10-50mm)

Objective: Remove oversize material before grinding

Stage 2: Intermediate Screening in Grinding Circuit (2-10mm)

Objective: Control cyclone feed size, improve grinding efficiency

Stage 3: Final Concentrate Screening (0.1-2mm)

Objective: Precise sizing of zinc concentrate before filtration

Polyurethane Screens for Zinc Processing | Maximize Recovery Efficiency 2

Why Conventional Screens Fall Short in Zinc Applications

The Steel Screen Problem in Zinc Circuits:

-Accelerated Corrosion: Zinc processing often involves acidic conditions (pH 4-6) that rapidly corrode steel

-Sulfide Adhesion: Zinc sulfide particles adhere to steel surfaces, causing blinding

-Iron Contamination: Worn steel screens introduce iron into concentrate, reducing grade

-Short Service Life: Typically 2-4 months in primary screening applications

Zinc ores, particularly sulfide ores containing abrasive minerals like quartz and pyrite, present extreme wear challenges for screening equipment. Polyurethane screens excel where others fail:

Extended Service Life:

Polyurethane's exceptional abrasion resistance provides 5-8 times longer operational life compared to conventional steel screens in zinc processing applications. This translates to:

Reduced replacement frequency from quarterly to annual or longer

Decreased downtime for screen changes by 60-75%

Polyurethane Screens for Zinc Processing | Maximize Recovery Efficiency 3

Lower inventory requirements for spare parts

Acid Resistance:

Polyurethane maintains structural integrity in the pH ranges typical of zinc processing (often 4-6), unlike steel that corrodes or rubber that degrades.

Reagent Compatibility:

Resistance to flotation reagents, depressants, and modifiers commonly used in zinc concentration ensures consistent performance throughout the screen's lifespan.