Study On Multi-stage Structured Packing Flotation Column

Froth flotation is an important method for minerals resources processing. Reference concerned different types of flotation machine and flotation column are reviewed systematically and it was found that flotation column is more efficient for material separation, which is a feasible way of improving the separating efficiency of mineral processing and comprehensive utilization of resources, reducing the separation energy consumption, it has a widely application and good future.The author summarizes the theoretical of particle-bubble in column flotation; discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the existing flotation column; illustrated the theoretical basis of developing the new high efficient flotation column; applied structured packing commonly used in gas-liquid separation processes to flotation process; put forward the concept of multi-stage structured packing flotation column (MSSPFC); designed, manufactured, installed and commissioning the setup and conducted a preliminary study.This article focus on discussing the aerating performance of MSSPFC: gas holdup with air inflow and frother concentration increases; diameter of bubbles decrease as the air inflow decrease and frother concentration increase, under the optimal experimental conditions, the bubble diameter is not more than 1.3 mm and level off degree; research velocity of liquid circulation in column by using laser doppler velocimeter (LDA), its value as air inflow and frother concentration increase, and the liquid circulation velocity 0.11m/s can be achieved in the condition of air inflow rate not more than 0.5m3/h and the foaming agent concentration of 100ppm.This paper involves contents of MSSPFC to carry out the flotation test research of Sijiaying hematite. The results show that concentrate grade is 52.9 and tailing is 26.45 by using floation hematite, which can not meet (there is some difference with) the standard of normal floatation index by one thick, one select and two sweeping by using mechanic flotation machine (concentrate grade is 65.61, tailing is18.51).Analyzed the results of bubble performance and test of hematite. Conclude that bubble generator in MSSPFC is required, and the other configurations of column and flotation residence time needed to be optimized. It needs to study deeply of fluid flow in column, mathematical models and enlarge, thereby develop floation equipments with new efficient and low power consumption.