Shaker table

Types of shaker tables

The shaker table is a kind of vibrating separation device. It works on the density difference between various materials and the inertia of the shake. Normally, a shaker table comprises a fixed, inclined plane and vertical oscillators, which mix up the separated river sands and gravel in a down-to-the-bottom manner. There are many kinds of shaker tables.

• Glass shaker table

  A shaker table for glass is one of the key components of the industrial material recycling process. It has been elaborately designed to facilitate the efficient and fast separation of different glass kinds, impurities, and materials. The table is a remarkably sturdy and durable piece of equipment, which is made to withstand the everyday usage of the recycling industry. Usually, a glass shaker table's top is made of high-friction material. This is to guarantee the glass's constant and even distribution on the table's surface. The vertical and horizontal oscillation movement of the shaker table help separate various glass materials based on their shapes. For example, the flat, wide, and low-density glass particles will be distinguished from higher-density ones, such as ceramic and porcelain, by the latter's impulse to move higher on the table. These days, more and more recycling firms use glass shaker tables to help recover valuable resources from waste streams.

• Gold shaker table

  A gold shaker table is a kind of speciation device, which is commonly used for mineral separation, especially for gold ore separation. The gold shaker tables exploit the differences in density and the influence of water flow and vertical vibrations on the material to separate those of higher density, such as gold, from others. Normally, gold shaker tables are made of high-strength, corrosion-resistant materials in order to work stably and efficiently in harsh mining environments. There are many ways to separate gold on the gold shaker tables, such as the use of the shaking method, the wash-water method, and the cross-flow method. Following the separation, the concentrated gold particles are often subjected to further refining and processing to extract pure gold.

• Wood shaker table

  A wood shaker table is a piece of furniture used to create displays, support, and hold items during the finishing process of woodworking, which is generally made out of solid wood, antique wood, and engineered wood. Its design is simple but functional and features a flat top surface and four legs, which are reminiscent of traditional farmhouse-style furniture. Currently, shaker tables are not only popular in wood workshops but also widely used in the furniture, metallurgy, and mineral separation industries. Their purposes of separating, supporting, and holding items are similar to those when dealing with wood. For instance, in the metallurgy and mineral separation industries, shaker tables assist in the separation of valuable minerals from waste materials by maintaining the same simple but effective principle of segregation through horizontal movement.

Specifications and maintenance of shaker tables

Shaker tables have distinct specifications that are suitable for specific industries and applications. These include their sizes, capacity, orientation, voltage, power, and other specifications matched with their ideal maintenance practices.

• Sizes: Shaker tables come in different sizes or configurations for varied project scales. For instance, magnesium alloy shaker tables' sizes generally range from about 3,200 mm to 2,900 mm in length and 1,800 mm to 1,600 mm in width. A specific example is the shaker table with the size of 3,220x1,800mm, which is applicable for separations of gold, silver, copper, hematite, ilmenite, bluestone, tungsten, tin, iron, zircon, etc.
• Capacity: Shaker tables' feeding capacities are also matched with various material types. A specific example is a 3,600 mm shaker table with a feeding capacity of 2.5 tons per hour.
• Orientation: Generally, there are horizontal and slope shaker tables tunneling different kinds of minerals.
• Voltage: Shaker tables evolve as the industry requires more efficient mineral separation.
• Power: Some shaker tables are powered by electricity while others by air compressors.
• Special functions: Such as the variable frequency control function, which can realize the separation of different materials through adjusting the table's speed.

In addition to these specifications of shaker tables, their maintenance practices also ensure their long-term performance. The common shaker table maintenance includes more frequent inspections and routine cleaning; regular lubrication; timely correction of minor issues; replacement of worn-out components; operator training; and better adjustment and control.

Scenarios

A shaker table has several applications in the mining industry and other material separation industries. Here are some of the ways mining industries use the shaker table.

• Gold and Silver Separation

Gold shaker tables are primarily used in the mining industry to separate precious metals like gold and silver from other materials. The combination of water flow and vibration helps the heavier materials, such as gold and silver, settle to the surface while other lighter substances are washed away.

• Concentration of Other Precious Materials

Beyond gold and silver, shaker tables also effectively separate other valuable metals from unwanted materials. Heavy minerals like platinum, zirconium, bearing sands, and monazite can all be found using shaker tables, highlighting their versatility and importance in mineral extraction.

• Recycling Industry

Shaker tables aren't just useful in mining. Their separation abilities are also crucial in recycling. By categorizing different metals, shaker tables boost the efficiency and quality of recycled metal processing. They ensure that valuable materials are recovered and enhance the overall recycling process.

• Coal Separation

Coal mines also utilize shaker tables for coal separation. The tables effectively distinguish between coal and other minerals, ensuring a purer coal extraction process. With the help of shaker tables, coal mines can focus on extracting quality coal and reduce the presence of unwanted minerals.

• Lead and Zinc Recovery

In the search for lead and zinc, miners rely on shaker tables to recover these minerals efficiently. The tables play a significant role in the initial separation of ore containing lead and zinc. By using shaker tables, miners can target and extract the ore rich in these minerals, making the process more effective.

• Concentration of Garnet

The mining of garnet is often done using shaker tables. These tables are specifically designed to separate garnet from other materials like beach sand. By employing shaker tables, garnet miners can effectively isolate this precious mineral, which has various applications in abrasive products and other industries.

How to Choose Shaker Tables

• Purpose:

  The desired outcome should come first when selecting a shaker table for purchase. The reason for this is that the end objective will mainly influence the kind of shaker table suitable for selection. Whether testing small-scale samples or separating large quantities of materials, there are shaker tables tailored specifically for each purpose. Understanding the final aim will make it easier to choose a shaker table that fits and works well.

• Size and Space:

  Another important factor to consider when selecting a shaker table is the amount of available workspace. Shaker tables are available in different sizes and dimensions. Whether it's a compact bench-top model that fits in a small laboratory or a large industrial-scale table that takes up significant floor space, measuring the area before purchasing is crucial. Furthermore, adjustability features can offer flexible solutions for tight spaces.

• Separation Needs:

  The types of materials that need to be separated and their specific requirements should also be considered when choosing a shaker table. For example, considering factors such as grain size, weight, composition, and the desire to achieve a particular level of separation will make it easier to determine the appropriate design of the shaker table in question.

• Power Source:

  When choosing a shaker table for a project, it is important to consider the type of power source it requires. Some shaker tables are electrically powered and must be plugged into the wall. Others use compressed air and connect to pneumatic systems. Choosing the right power source will determine how flexible and portable the table can be. For example, a portable shaker table powered by a battery may allow fieldwork, whereas electrically powered ones work better in a fixed location.

Shaker table Q&A

Q1: How thick is the metal on a shaker table?

A1: Shaker tables have metal varying in thickness depending on the application. For a standard heavy-duty shaker table, 3/16″ to 1/4″ are common for the top deck. Some use 3/8″ in high-impact or rugged applications.

Q2: What motor is used on a shaker table?

A2: Shaker tables use different motors depending on the size and application. A small industrial or commercial motor in the range of 1-3 HP is typically used. Some larger models may use a 5-10 HP motor.

Q3: What other names do shaker tables go by?

A3: Shaker tables are commonly called vibration tables, vibro shakers, or vibrating platforms. In some contexts, they may also be referred to as just shakers or feeders.

Q4: Can the load on a shaker table change during operation?

A4: No. The load on a shaker table shouldn't change during operation. That can destabilize the machine and cause safety hazards. The weight on the table must be steady and constant to maintain vibration consistency. If adjustment is needed, it should only be made after stopping the shaker first.

Q5: Can people stand on shaker tables?

A5: It depends on the shaker's size, weight, load capacity, and height of the table. While some are big enough for people to stand on safely, others are not. Shaker tables aren't designed for standing. If a person stands on one, caution is required. Their weight must be under the table's capacity. The person must also balance to prevent tip-over or vibration-related accidents.