Point-Load Test

SGS's philosophy is to first determine the variability of your ore using rigorous comminution testing, such as the Point-load Test. We then design and optimize your grinding circuit, depending on the stage of your project.

The Point-load Test measures the Point Load Strength Index (Is(50)) of rock specimens, and their Strength Anisotropy Index (Ia(50)), which is the ratio of Point Load Strengths in directions that give the greatest and least values. Rock specimens in the form of core (diametral and axial tests), cut blocks (block test), or irregular lumps (irregular lump test) are broken by application of a concentrated load through a pair of spherically truncated, conical platens. The required testing apparatus is light and usually portable.

Feed Sample Requirements:

• At least 10 specimens are required for each sample. More can be necessary if the sample is heterogeneous or anisotropic
• Core specimens with length/diameter ratio greater than 1.0 are suitable for diametral testing
• Core specimens with length/diameter ratio of 0.3 to 1.0 are suitable for axial testing

Block or irregular lump specimens, with a length/height ratio greater than 1.0, and a height/width ratio of 0.3 to 1.0, are also suitable for these tests.

SGS's comminution experts conduct the Point-load Test in combination with other bench-scale comminution tests.  The use of many methodologies provides you with a bankable solution that is unmatched in its rigor. Contact us to determine the variability of your orebody.