Crushing ore for silver and gold without chemicals can be done using mechanical methods. Here's a step-by-step guide using simple tools:
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Manual Crushing:
- Tools Needed: Sledgehammer, hand-held rock crusher, mortar and pestle.
- Process:
- Use a sledgehammer to break the ore into smaller pieces. Make sure to wear safety gear, such as gloves and goggles.
- Once the ore is broken down, place smaller pieces in a hand-held rock crusher or mortar and pestle to grind them further into fine powder.
- Continuously check the consistency and size of the particles to ensure they are fine enough.
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Using a Crusher:
- Tools Needed: Jaw crusher, roller crusher, or impact mill.
- Process:
- Feed the ore pieces into a jaw crusher to break them down into smaller chunks.
- Use a roller crusher or an impact mill to grind those chunks into even finer particles.
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Panning:
- Tools Needed: Gold pan, water source.
- Process:
- Place the crushed ore into a gold pan.
- Submerge the pan in water and agitate it to allow the heavier gold and silver particles to settle at the bottom.
- Careful sluicing and panning can help further separate the precious metals from the crushed ore.
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Gravity Separation:
- Tools Needed: Shaker table or sluice box.
- Process:
- Pour the crushed ore over the shaker table or through a sluice box.
- The motion and water flow will help concentrate the heavier gold and silver particles.
- Collect the concentrate for further refinement, if needed.
Remember, while these mechanical methods don't use chemicals, they still require diligence and patience to effectively separate the precious metals from the ore. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and working in a well-ventilated area, are important to avoid injuries or health hazards.
