ISO 5146:2023

Overview - ISO 5146:2023 (Density tracer testing for coal density separators)

ISO 5146:2023 specifies a standardized, site-based method for measuring the performance of coal density separators using density tracer testing. Applicable to dense medium cyclones (DMCs) and dense medium baths, the standard covers single separators and groups of separators where tracers are inserted upstream. It defines tracer properties, test apparatus and insertion/retrieval or detection procedures, data processing (including statistical fitting of partition curves) and standardized reporting. ISO 5146:2023 is partly based on AS 5213 and references AS 2418 for terminology.

Key technical topics and requirements

• Density tracer properties: tracers must be non‑porous, robust and fully described in reports. Identification can be non‑RFID (engraved or colour‑coded) or RFID (electronically stored density). For cubic tracers ≥ 8 mm, density tolerances are specified (99% within ±0.006 RD up to RD 1.60; ±0.011 RD above 1.60).
• Tracer selection and counts: choose nominal sizes and densities; use at least 30 tracers per nominal density, with equal counts across densities.
• Insertion procedure: define insertion point, test duration and insertion interval; use pseudo‑random or structured insertion order; document start/stop times and manage interruptions (≤10 min tolerated if documented).
• Retrieval/detection: for non‑RFID tracers retrieve from floats/sinks drain‑and‑rinse screens (or alternate points) and sort by density; for RFID density tracers use downstream detectors to log tracer densities automatically. Exclude tracers recorded after the defined cut‑off time.
• Data processing and partition curves: calculate partition coefficients, apply statistical criteria for data acceptability, fit one of two mathematical partition curve forms, derive cut‑points and confidence intervals. The standard includes formulae suitable for spreadsheet implementation and guidance to avoid bias in curve fitting.
• Reporting: standardized test report requirements and templates are provided (annexes include tracer properties, test duration guidance, selection guidance, and interpretation of partition curves).

Practical applications and users

ISO 5146:2023 is intended for:

• Coal preparation plant operators and process engineers validating separator performance
• Metallurgical and mineral processing engineers optimizing dense medium circuits
• Independent test laboratories and certification bodies performing performance audits
• OEMs of DMCs and dense medium baths, and consultants advising on plant commissioning, troubleshooting and performance benchmarking
• R&D groups studying separation behavior and partitioning characteristics

Practical benefits include consistent, repeatable performance measurement, improved comparator reporting, and data that supports process tuning, product specification control and compliance checks.

Related standards and references

• AS 5213 (basis for parts of this standard)
• AS 2418 (glossary of terms referenced by ISO 5146)
• ISO/IEC directives for standard development and implementation

Keywords: ISO 5146:2023, density tracer testing, coal density separators, dense medium cyclones (DMCs), partition coefficients, RFID density tracers, dense medium baths, coal preparation plant, partition curve.