NEWS FLASH!  New SMC Test® Information - how to use Mih and Mic 

Download Steve Morrell's paper on advances in predicting
the specific energy requirement of cominution cicuits

Using the SMC Test® results to Predict F80 and Grinding Circuit Power Requirements

The SMC Test® was developed by Dr Steve Morrell of SMC Testing as a cost-effective means of profiling an ore body to predict its comminution circuit throughput as well as its rock mass characteristics and blasting properties. Energy requirements for crushing and HPGR options can now be determined in addition to AG/SAG mills, and with Mic, ball mills.  The SMC Test®:

  • Was developed specifically to be carried out on a samples of drill core, but can also be carried out on lump rock
  • Requires relatively small quantities of material
  • Can be used in greenfield, brownfield and established operations
  • Determines the Drop Weight Index (DWi) of a sample.

The Drop Weight Index (DWi) is a measure of the resistance of a sample to impact breakage. The DWi:

  • Is measured in kWh/m3 and is directly related to the JK breakage parameters, A and b, which are used in JKSimMet for design and optimisation of AG/SAG Mill circuits.
  • Correlates with the Point Load index and UCS
  • Is relatively easy to carry out and should always be used in place of the Bond BMWI test for SAG Milling. The Bond BMWI has no correlation with the throughput or power requirements of a SAG Mill.
  • Should be carried out on samples from each ore domain and in conjunction with a full JK Drop Weight Test for correlation purposes.

Click here for more information on SMC tests or the DWi

Sample Requirements

1. Sample requirements are shown in the Table below.  Two sample preparation methods are available; the cut core method where the ore sample is competent and restricted in quantity, and the crush and select method where the ore is available in larger quantity or is friable. 



For larger diameter core, greater lengths are required for the cut core method. Half core, quarter core and curshed rock can also be used.  Lengths in the above Table must be multiplied by a factor of two for half core and four for quarter core, respectively.

If further tests are required (such as a Bond Mill Weight Index test), then the sample may be reused. Contact our Laboratory Services Manager for more information on exact sample requirements and optimum number of tests.

2. Download the Sample Transmission Forms, which include Sample Hazard Advice Form and Quarantine Declaration.  A completed Sample Hazard Advice Form must accompany or arrive in advance of every sample shipped to JKTech.  A Quarantine Declaration must be completed for every sample originating from outside Australia.