Exploring the world of wolframite

Wolframite

Unique properties of wolframite

    Category: Oxide minerals
  • Formula: (Fe,Mn)WO4
  • Crystal system: Monoclinic
  • Color: Grayish to brownish black
  • Mohs scale hardness: 4–4.5
  • Luster: Submetallic to resinous
  • Streak: Reddish brown
  • Diaphaneity: Opaque
  • Specific gravity: 7–7.5
  • Magnetism: Weak magnetism
  • High melting point: 3,410℃ (6,170℉)

Extremely uneven distribution of tungsten resources

Here are the main country-wise figures for global tungsten mine production and reserves in 2023:

Global wolframite production and reserves in 2023(Unit:metric tons) Country Mine production Reserves Australia 800 570,000 Austria 910 10,000 Bolivia 1,500 NA China 63,000 2,300,000 Korea, North 1,700 29,000 Portugal 500 4,000 Russia 2,000 400,000 Rwanda 1,400 NA Spain 1,500 66,000 Vietnam 3,500 74,000 Other countries 1,100 950,000

Data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS)

Tungsten Price

leading to a rise in tungsten prices and eventual stabilization.

Exploring the mysteries of wolframite processing

3 content of 1.55% in the ore.

we have determined a process for the plant involving crushing, grinding, flotation, and three magnetic separation to recover tungsten concentrate along with valuable minerals like sulfur and iron concentrates.

1. Wolframite Ore Crushing

2. Wolframite Ore Grinding

3. Strong Magnetic Roughing

3 recovery rate reaching its maximum value in the concentrate.

4. Flotation Desulfurization

5. Weak Magnetic Iron Separation

6. Strong Magnetic Tungsten Separation Crusher

3 grade of 60.76% and a recovery rate of 91.42%.

What is tungsten used for?

Tungsten extracted from scheelite has a high melting point, high density, high strength, as well as good electrical and thermal conductivity, making it an important strategic metal.

    Manufacture of hard alloys: Tungsten carbide is a key raw material in the manufacture of hard alloys. Hard alloys, known for their high hardness and wear resistance, are widely used in crafting cutting tools, drill bits, planer blades, grinding tools, and more.
  • Manufacture of high-temperature alloys: Tungstens high melting point makes it ideal for crafting components for aerospace engines, nuclear reactors, and other high-temperature applications.
  • Electronics industry: Tungsten is also used in the manufacturing of filaments, electrodes, electronic devices, vacuum tubes, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and more.
  • Radiation shielding materials: Tungsten has good absorption capabilities for X-rays and gamma rays, making it useful as a radiation shielding material in medical and nuclear industries.
  • Chemical catalysts: Tungsten compounds are also used as components in chemical catalysts for organic synthesis and other fields.