FAQ >> Flotation Equipment Selection

Flotation Equipment Selection

ABSTRACT The key factors in flotation equipment selection and sizing are the particular flowsheet chosen to treat the ore and the retention time required at each stage. Many other factors have to be considered when calculating the total cell volume required. This paper also discusses flotation plant layout and design considerations, as they relate to the flotation equipment and associated ancillary systems. INTRODUCTION It is assumed for purposes of this chapter that the flowshcet has been fixed and flotation times to achieve target metallurgical results for the various stages of treatment have already been determined. Methods for these tasks are covered in another Section of this volume. This chapter discusses factors that influence the translation of required flotation times to particular equipment sizing calculations. Column flotation cells are not dealt with specifically here except for some layout considerations, since they are covered in detail in another chapter. EQUIPMENT SELECTION: SIZING INPUTS The design criteria are key to the whole design process in that they set the desired throughput rate, operating time and schedule, expected operating conditions, as well as describing expected ore characteristics. They provide a framework within which the sizing and selection of equipment fits. The first step in flotation equipment sizing is to convert theoretical retention time to a plant value. Once the operating retention time has been set, other factors which affect the volume and flow rate of slurry at any point in the circuit must be accounted for. A detailed mass balance for solid, liquid and slurry flows needs to be prepared based on the chosen flowsheet and metallurgical balance and considering expected operating conditions and design factors. Detailed aspects to considerSare discussed below.

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