What are shaking tables used for?
A shaking table uses a sloping, reciprocating deck and flowing water to separate liberated particles by their combined density, size and transport behavior. It is often considered for gravity cleaning and small product streams.
How it works
Asymmetric deck motion and wash water move particles along different paths. Riffles, deck slope and feed preparation help form product bands. Operator adjustments and stable feeding influence the grade-recovery balance.
When to consider it
Consider a table when testwork supports a controlled feed and a useful density contrast. Define whether the purpose is concentrate cleaning, laboratory evaluation or a continuous production duty.
Application limits to check
A table is sensitive to slimes, changing feed and particle-size spread. Scaling a small test directly to a large plant without checking deck loading, staffing and product handling can mislead.
Selection data for a useful quotation
These are enquiry inputs, not specifications of a single model. Include measured values, units and the expected operating range; flag anything still to be tested.
| Input | What to provide |
|---|---|
| Feed mineralogy | Density contrast, liberation and valuable-mineral form |
| Feed preparation | Size range, slimes removal and slurry concentration |
| Loading | Solids rate per deck and number of operating decks |
| Product target | Concentrate grade, recovery and middlings treatment |
| Water | Wash-water flow, quality and recirculation |
| Layout | Deck access, product launders, supports and adjustment space |
Compare the complete duty
A shaking table offers visible product bands and adjustable cleaning, while spirals or centrifugal units use different mechanisms and may suit different duties. Compare recovery by size fraction and total operating effort.
Before accepting a supplier proposal
- Request table tests with representative feed and retained product samples.
- Review deck material, drive adjustment and wear-parts availability.
- Confirm stable feed distribution, water control and separate product collection.
Buyer questions about shaking tables
Can a table recover very fine gold?
Possible performance depends on particle size, shape, liberation and operating conditions. Test the actual feed; a universal fine-gold recovery claim is unreliable.
Why classify the feed?
Particles of different sizes behave differently on the deck. Narrower tested size fractions can make the separation more controllable.
Is a table suitable for large throughput?
Multiple decks may be needed. Evaluate footprint, water, operator attention and concentrate handling as part of the plant design.
Technical reference
Xinhai: official equipment and technology description ↗
The source provides technology context. The selection checklist is KMS Industrial editorial guidance; manufacturer models and performance figures are not KMS specifications.