Modelling transport phenomena in a flotation de-inking column: Focus on gas flow, pulp and froth retention time

A laboratory flotation column using Venturi aerators and a vacuum system to remove froth was used to investigate the contribution of gas flow, pulp flow, cell volume and froth retention time on the ink removal efficiency and on cellulose fibres and mineral fillers loss. The increase in the gas flow from 4 to 8 L/min gave a general rise of particle transport from the pulp slurry to the froth with an ensuing strong increase in ink removal, from 75% to 85%, and water and total loss, from 10% to 40% and 15% to 30%, respectively. Whereas, the increase of the cell volume from 14 to 24 L improved ink removal from 72% to 80% without considerably affecting flotation loss. The rise of the froth retention time in the flotation cell from 5 to 20 s before removal gave a general decrease in the flotation loss from 20% to 11% without a corresponding decrease in ink removal. This trend was interpreted as reflecting poor ink drainage through the froth. The increase of both pulp and froth retention time in the flotation cell appeared as the most favourable way to improve ink flotation selectivity. A mathematical model, describing particle removal during flotation in terms of true flotation, entrainment and drainage, was proposed and used to fit experimental data.