Study of the impact of hydrodynamic parameters on gas dispersion in pneumatic flotation with the Concorde CellTM
2023 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 80 credits / 120 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
The mining industry currently faces significant challenges in processing complex depositscharacterized by varying mineralogy, liberation size, and ore grade. Froth flotation hasemerged as a viable method to tackle these challenges, as it involves a complex interplay ofphysicochemical processes, operational parameters, machine design, and circuitarrangement. Numerous flotation technologies have been developed over the years tooptimize the metallurgical performance of different ore types. One such technology is theConcorde CellTM, which offers a novel approach to efficiently process fine and ultrafineparticles, capable of handling particle sizes up to 120 µm. The successful collection ofparticles using bubbles is crucial in achieving optimal flotation outcomes, as bubbles serveas carriers for valuable minerals into the concentrate. Generating these bubbles involvesvarious techniques, and comprehending their behavior under different hydrodynamicconditions is essential for enhancing the metallurgical response. An effective means tocharacterize the hydrodynamic conditions and gas dispersion within the flotation cell isthrough the estimation of gas hold-up (𝜀𝑔), superficial gas (air) velocity (𝐽𝑔), and Sauter meandiameter (𝐷32). These parameters enable the determination of bubble surface area flux (𝑆𝑏),a key variable that influences flotation rates and requires careful control.This research aims to investigate gas dispersion properties within the laboratory ConcordeCellTM, employing different frothers under varying hydrodynamic conditions in two phases:water and air. The findings from these initial investigations will establish a baseline forfurther studies involving different ore types (three phases). A novel instrument was utilizedto measure bubble size and superficial gas velocity, enabling the analysis of variousrelationships among gas dispersion properties. This valuable information will serve as abenchmark for comparing the Concorde CellTM with other flotation technologies and willfacilitate modeling and control of the system. Notably, an observed relationship betweenoverall gas hold-up and bubble surface area flux highlights its significance.Furthermore, the investigation detected bubble sizes below 600 micrometers, underscoringthe complete dependence of bubble size distribution (BSD) on the frother type and operatingconditions. Additionally, a design of experiments was conducted to assess the impact ofspecific variables on bubble size reduction, revealing the crucial role of hydrodynamiccavitation within the Concorde CellTM.In summary, this study provides valuable insights into gas dispersion properties within theConcorde CellTM, shedding light on the relationship between overall gas hold-up, bubblesurface area flux, and bubble size distribution. These findings not only contribute to ourunderstanding of the technology but also lay the groundwork for future investigationsinvolving different ore types. Moreover, this research facilitates the modeling and control ofthe Concorde CellTM, enhancing its performance and efficiency in processing complexdeposits.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2023.
National Category
Geology
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:ltu:diva-101555OAI: oai:DiVA.org:ltu-101555DiVA, id: diva2:1802147
Subject / course
Student thesis, at least 30 credits
Educational program
Master Programme in Georesources Engineering
Presentation
(English)
Supervisors
Examiners
2023-10-052023-10-032023-10-05Bibliographically approved