Gas dispersion characteristics of flotation reagents

Gas dispersion is one of the key factors in the mineral flotation process articulated by many variables such as bubble size, gas hold-up, gas superficial velocity and bubble surface area flux (Sb). In this work, experiments were carried out on column flotation (5.08 cm in diameter and 180 cm height) with different types of reagents to evaluate the gas hold-up. The gas hold-up was measured using pressure difference technique. The parameters were optimized for enhanced gas hold-up for better flotation performance. The influence of operating parameters comprising different reagents' dosage/type and their mixture combination on gas hold-up was discussed in detail. Based on the experimental data, the dimensionless correlations were developed to predict the gas hold-up within the range of parameters studied. The correlations are found to be able to predict gas hold-up with acceptable accuracy.

Two different collectors such as kerosene and diesel oil were used. The results indicated that the gas hold-up is marginally increased with kerosene compared to diesel oil. Further, the gas hold-up was optimized with the change in volume of water, air flow rate and reagent dosages. The dimensionless correlations were developed to predict the gas hold-up with reasonable accuracy.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The reagents' dosages were optimized individually as well as in combination.
► Parameters were optimized for enhanced gas hold-up.
► Dimensionless correlations were developed to predict the gas hold-up in the range.
► The correlations are able to predict the gas hold-up with reasonable accuracy.