The spelling of "stamping mill" is a bit tricky. The /æ/ in "stamp" and the /ɪ/ in "mill" are both pronounced with a short vowel sound. The "p" in "stamping" is silent, but the "m" in "mill" is pronounced. The stress falls on the first syllable, making it "STAM-ping mill." The word refers to a machine used for crushing ores into a fine powder. It's important to get the spelling right when researching or writing about mining and metallurgy.
A stamping mill is a mechanical device used in mining and ore processing operations. It is primarily designed to crush and grind rocks or ores into fine particles for further extraction of valuable minerals or metals. The term "stamping" refers to the repetitive vertical motion of heavy metal stamps, which are typically made of iron or steel.
The stamping mill consists of a large, heavy-duty frame that houses a series of stamping batteries. Each battery comprises a set of vertically arranged stamps that are equipped with heavy iron heads or shoes. These stamps are lifted and dropped in a consistent and rhythmic manner by a camshaft or other mechanical device, causing a repetitive pounding or stamping action on the ore.
As the stamps hit the ore, they crush it into smaller pieces or powder. The stamps create enough force to break down the rocks and separate valuable minerals or metals from the surrounding waste material. Typically, water or other substances are added to the ore during the stamping process to facilitate the separation of desired minerals.
Stamping mills were a significant technological advancement in mining during the 19th and early 20th centuries. They replaced earlier manual methods of crushing and grinding ores, greatly increasing the efficiency and speed of processing. Stamping mills played a crucial role in the development of the mining industry and were commonly found in areas with significant mineral deposits.
A mill for crushing and pounding ores.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "stamping mill" has its origins in Old English and derives from the verb "stamp", which means "to crush or pound with repeated blows". It is often used in the context of crushing or pulverizing materials, particularly in the mining and metalworking industries. The term "mill" refers to a machine or facility used for grinding, crushing, or processing materials. Therefore, a "stamping mill" can be understood as a facility in which materials are crushed or pounded through repeated blows, typically using heavy hammers or stamps.