OPTIMIZATION OF LATERITE ORE GRINDING PROCESS USING BALL MILL WITH RESPONSE SURFACE METHOD

Dependence and interaction between several operating conditions that affect the grinding process using a ball mill such as number of balls, duration, rotational speed on particle size at 80% product mass (P80) mineral liberation have been obtained in this study CCD (central composite design) response surface method (RSM). The was carried out cylindrical with diameter length 18.6 cm 21.5 cm, respectively, well steel 2.5 weight 100 grams/ball. optimum data for smallest value P80. It known balls duration significant effect reduction P80 sample. model can describe influence variables good accuracy. character content sample observed X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) pattern elemental concentration. Minerals smaller hardness scale are easier to liberate more exposed. initial material 1560.89 µm, while condition reduced 513.29 µm.