Effect of gas superficial velocity (Jg) and frother/collector (MIBC/X-343) reagent dosage on froth horizontal displacement and galena drainage

This paper attends the study of froth behaviour for the design of future launder, crowder and scraper configurations. The effect of gas superficial velocity (Jg) and Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol/Sodium Isopropyl Xanthate (MIBC/X-343) reagent dosage on froth horizontal displacement, bubble size of the froth surface, froth velocity, froth carrying capacity, grade and particle size of the concentrate obtained, was studied. A novel experimental apparatus was constructed to promote the free transport of froth in its horizontal displacement using three output sections each 200 mm long to extend the overflow lip to 200, 400 and 600 mm from the flotation cell. The aim of this new experimental apparatus was to magnify the phenomena that occur in the froths. Attending this consideration, the present apparatus cannot be compared with industrial flotation cells but was particularly useful for describing phenomena on froth transport. The results show that the froth horizontal displacement was promoted at high levels of Jg, while high levels of frother/collector reagent dosage promote high froth carrying capacity and longer media half-life inhibiting bubble collapse as an effect of the mineral layer and the hydrated layer on the bubble. An adequate selection of both study variables generates a well loaded and fluid froth, which can survive for longer distances toward the overflow lip. On the other hand, the galena concentration increased or decreased across the horizontal displacement as a function of both Jg and frother/collector reagent dosage.