Abstract

This paper presents a new methodology for the design of flotation circuits based on the group contribution method. The methodology considers three design and analysis tools: 1) the process group contribution to preliminarily evaluate and synthesize flotation circuits, 2) sensitivity analysis to identify critical variables and stages, and 3) reverse simulation to guide the experimentation, the establishment of operating conditions, and the equipment design. The methodology includes three steps: 1) definition and analysis of the problem, 2) synthesis and screening of alternatives, and 3) improvements and final design. A case study is included to illustrate the proposed methodology. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.