Influence of hydrodynamics on preflotation process in flotation machine Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration

This paper presents the results of an investigation into the influence of hydrodynamics on a preflotation process for the copper sulfide ore from the Fore-Sudetic Monocline deposits in Poland in a flotation machine. The main aim of the preflotation stage for Polish copper ore is to remove the easy-to-float organic matter — organic carbon — that causes serious problems in metallurgical processes. The organic matter is connected with the presence of shale ore. This paper describes the preflotation experiments conducted to investigate the effect of various stirrer speeds. The upgrading selectivity of copper and organic carbon were analyzed and compared. The results show that the effectiveness of separation between organic carbon and copper decreases with increased stirrer speed in the laboratory flotation machine. The more intensive the mixing of the flotation suspension, the lower the selectivity of the preflotation experiment. Lower stirrer speed probably provides lower mechanical entrainment and flotation of copper minerals.