For a revolving (tumbling) mill, how does wet grinding compare with dry grinding in terms of practical operation and downstream handling/classification?

Introduction / Context:
Choice between wet and dry grinding impacts energy, capacity, dust control, and downstream classification. Understanding trade-offs guides circuit design.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Tumbling mill operation.
• Industry practice: wet grinding often improves breakage kinetics and capacity.
• However, slurry handling adds complexity.

Concept / Approach:
Wet grinding typically reduces power per ton and can increase capacity due to improved transport and cushioning effects. The downside is the need for slurry pumps, hydrocyclones, thickeners, and drying if a dry product is required—complicating handling and classification.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Contrast power/capacity trends (wet often favorable).Identify operational complexity of slurry circuits.Conclude handling/classification are more complicated.

Verification / Alternative check:
Typical plant flowsheets include hydrocyclones after wet mills, confirming added classification complexity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
More energy/less capacity: not generally true; often the opposite.“None”: incorrect because there is a clear operational difference.

Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring end-product moisture specifications that may require subsequent drying.

Final Answer:
Wet grinding complicates handling and classification of the product