Abstract

The collection zone residence time distribution (RTD) of mechanical self-aerated flotation cells was characterized for liquid and solid per size class (-45 μm, +45-150 μm and +150 μm). It was found that a single large industrial cell with a volume of 130 to 250 m 3, now used in plant operations, can be well represented by an LTST (large and small tank-in-series) model plus dead time. From a scale-up point of view, results showed a similar mixing behavior for industrial cells ranging from 130 to 250 m 3. Also, single mechanical cells showed a similar mixing pattern (RTD) when compared to large pneumatic flotation columns. It was confirmed that for practical purposes, the mixing condition in a flotation bank of three or more cells in series can be well described by the classical N tanks-in-series model. Copyright 2008, Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration, Inc.