ToolnozaMINING TOOL
Circulating Load Calculator
Calculate grinding-circuit circulating load, total mill feed and the recycled share from dry-solids flow rates.
Circulating Load Calculator
FREE ONLINE TOOLSTEP BY STEP
How to use circulating load calculator
- Check the input units and assumptions.
- Review the result and example.
IN PRACTICE
Example
F = 100 t/h; R = 250 t/h → CL = 250%; M = 350 t/h; recycle = 71.43%.
GOOD TO KNOW
Is circulating load the same as recycle percentage?
No. CL uses fresh feed as its denominator; recycle percentage uses total mill feed. Always name the denominator when comparing reports.
Formula and worked example
CL (%) = 100R/F; M = F + R; recycle (%) = 100R/(F + R).
F = 100 t/h; R = 250 t/h → CL = 250%; M = 350 t/h; recycle = 71.43%.
How to interpret the result
A circulating load above 100% is possible: the return stream can exceed fresh feed. In the example, the mill processes 3.5 tonnes for every tonne of fresh feed.
This ratio does not measure classification efficiency or energy efficiency. Track product size, classifier separation and mill power before changing operating conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is circulating load the same as recycle percentage?
No. CL uses fresh feed as its denominator; recycle percentage uses total mill feed. Always name the denominator when comparing reports.
What assumptions limit this calculation?
Steady-state dry-solids balance only. Do not mix wet slurry mass, dry solids or volumetric flow. Changes in circuit inventory invalidate a simple instantaneous balance.
How to Calculate Circulating Load: Formula & Example