Principles of Fire Assaying

Metallurgical analysis with fire is a time-honoured technique. Both the high melting points and the resistance to oxidation that noble metals possess make this process possible. The temperature of a sample is raised to more than one thousand degrees Celsius in a specialized furnace. When subjected to high temperatures, base metals undergo oxidation and separate from precious metals.

To separate, fire assaying requires the use of flux materials. Because of these fluxes, melting points are lowered, and precious metals are combined. It is possible to weigh and analyse the concentrated precious metals that are contained within the prill, also known as the metal bead.

The ability of fire assaying to evaluate large sample volumes enables it to produce accurate measurements of the precious metal content while simultaneously reducing the number of sampling mistakes.

Various Methods of Fire Assay Analysis

Using various techniques, fire assay analysis determines the concentration of precious metals in various materials. For gold analysis, the conventional fire assay procedure involves fusing the sample with flux and lead oxide after it has been prepared.

• In this key phase, a porous cupel oxidizes the lead button. A pure precious metal bead is left behind after lead oxidizes and seeps into the cupel. By using this method, gold may be determined with great accuracy.
• Following the oxidation of lead and its subsequent seepage into the cupel, a bead made of pure precious metal is left behind. With the help of this technique, gold can be identified with a high degree of precision.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Utilizing Fire Assay Technology

The examination of fire assay is particularly accurate when it comes to the presence of precious metals. By using this method, it is possible to identify minute quantities of platinum group metals, silver, and gold with a high degree of accuracy. It can handle complex mineral samples, which is vital for decision-making in the mining industry, where reliable findings are needed. Even though it is a complicated method, the fire assay is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other analytical approaches. Through fire assay, recyclable gold and silver items can be analysed to see which ones can be refined for profit.

The results of a fire assay are better, but it does have limitations. It needs specialized tools and people with the right skills, which drives up operational costs. Because the temperatures are high and there are dangerous chemicals present, safety measures must be taken during fire tests.

How It Applies To Refining Operations

When it comes to jewellery and mining refiners, fire assay guarantees an accurate assessment of the gold content. Instant Gold Refining on select batches includes fire assay services. For more details, please feel free to reach us.