flotation column

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application discloses a kind of flotation column including column, distributor, bubble generator and mixer, during use, slurry is supplied into column by feed inlet, then bubble generator is opened, bubble is output via distributor, open mixer, mixer can form gas-liquid mixed medium, then mixed medium is output via distributor, bubble is contacted with mineral in slurry, hydrophobic mineral in slurry can be captured by bubble and discharged via concentrate outlet, and hydrophilic mineral will not be captured by bubble and discharged via tailings outlet, and based on this, the separation of useful mineral and gangue mineral can be completed.The flotation column provided by the embodiment of the present application, the distributor includes a base and a plurality of nozzles, one end of the plurality of nozzles is connected to the base, and the plurality of nozzles are inclinedly arranged in the height and width directions relative to the base, which can improve the flotation efficiency, the rotating flow field can pre-removal coarse gangue, reduce the phenomenon of gangue overgrinding, reduce energy consumption and reduce the problem of concentrate pollution.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of mineral processing engineering technology, and in particular to a flotation column. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional flotation technology is mainly designed for separating fine-grained ores, but its effect on separating coarse-grained ores is poor. This is because coarse-grained ores contain a large amount of gangue and have narrow particles, making it difficult for traditional flotation technology to effectively separate the target components, resulting in excessive energy consumption and concentrate contamination. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related art.

[0004] Therefore, this application provides a flotation column comprising: A column, wherein a feed inlet is formed at the top of the column where a concentrate outlet is formed, and a tailings outlet is formed at the bottom; A distributor is disposed within the column. The distributor includes a base and a plurality of nozzles. One end of the plurality of nozzles is connected to the base. The plurality of nozzles are inclined relative to the height and width directions of the base. A bubble generator, wherein the bubble generator is connected to the distributor; A mixer is disposed between the distributor and the bubble generator.

[0005] In one feasible implementation, the column comprises: A flotation shell, the flotation shell forming a flotation cell and a conical cell, the distributor being arranged at the transition between the flotation cell and the conical cell.

[0006] In one feasible implementation, the column further includes: A fixing ring is arranged at the transition between the flotation cell and the conical cell; Multiple telescopic rods, one end of which is connected to the fixing ring, and the base is connected to the other end of the multiple telescopic rods.

[0007] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes: A sieve plate, the sieve plate being connected to the inner wall of the column; A classifier, wherein the output end of the classifier is connected to the feed inlet.

[0008] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes: a controller, the controller comprising: Memory, which stores computer programs; The processor executes the computer program; When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the following: Obtain the fineness information of the minerals output from the classifier; Based on the fineness information of the mineral, the frequency and pore size of the bubbles output by the bubble generator are determined.

[0009] In one feasible implementation, the nozzle includes: The housing and multiple nozzles disposed within the housing, wherein the multiple nozzles are inclined relative to the height and width directions of the base.

[0010] In one feasible implementation, the plurality of nozzles within each nozzle are arranged in two or more rows, with the space at the nozzle outlets of the plurality of nozzles in each row increasing along a first direction, and the tilt angle of the nozzles being determined by the following formula: H / L=(SH) / (n-1)d(1) H 2 +L 2 =S 2 (2) α = arctan (H / L) (3) Where H represents the vertical height of the nozzle, L represents the projected length of the nozzle in the horizontal direction, S represents the length of the nozzle tube, n is the number of rows of multiple nozzle tubes in a single nozzle, d is the maximum orifice diameter of the nozzle tube, and α is the tilt angle of the nozzle, where α is defined as the angle between the nozzle axis and the horizontal direction.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the nozzle is detachably connected to the base, and a seal is provided between the nozzle and the base.

[0012] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes: Multiple guide plates are arranged in pairs on the inner wall of the column. One end of each guide plate is hinged to the column, and the other end extends toward the distributor.

[0013] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes: A water inlet pipe is installed inside the column, passing through the tailings outlet.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: The flotation column provided in this application includes a column body, a distributor, a bubble generator, and a mixer. During use, the slurry is supplied into the column body through the feed inlet. Then, the bubble generator is turned on, and bubbles are output through the distributor. The mixer is turned on, and the mixer can mix the bubbles and water. Then, the gas-liquid mixed medium is output through the bubble generator. The bubbles come into contact with the minerals in the slurry. Hydrophobic minerals in the slurry are captured by the bubbles and discharged through the concentrate outlet, while hydrophilic minerals are not captured by the bubbles and are discharged through the tailings outlet. Based on this, the separation of useful minerals and gangue minerals can be completed. The flotation column provided in this embodiment includes a distributor comprising a base and multiple nozzles. One end of each nozzle is connected to the base. The nozzles are inclined relative to both the height and width of the base. The width of the base can be arranged horizontally, and the height of the base can be arranged vertically. The inclined arrangement of the nozzles relative to both the height and width of the base allows the nozzles to be inclined in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Based on this, when bubbles are output through the nozzles, the bubbles can be output along the inclined direction, making the bubble jet more uniform. Furthermore, for target minerals that fall without attached bubbles, they will be repeatedly blown up by the bubbles output from the nozzles, increasing the interaction opportunities between bubbles and mineral particles, thereby improving flotation efficiency and mineral recovery rate. In addition, since the inclined nozzles can form a stable rotating flow field in the flotation machine, the surface wettability of the minerals is higher, thereby reducing fluid waste and reducing the total amount of fluid required in the flotation process, thus reducing the energy consumption of the flotation process. Furthermore, the inclined nozzles are conducive to forming a rotating flow field. Due to centrifugal force, heavier tailings will gather towards the center of the flow field, which is beneficial for tailings discharge. Multiple tilted nozzles improve flotation performance by optimizing the movement trajectories of bubbles and ore particles. A rotating flow field ensures uniform distribution and good radial contact between bubbles and ore particles, thereby increasing flotation efficiency. Furthermore, the rotating flow field pre-removes coarse gangue, reducing gangue over-grinding, lowering energy consumption, and minimizing concentrate contamination. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a distributor for a flotation column according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of the distributor of a flotation column according to another embodiment provided in this application; Figure 3A schematic structural diagram of an angle of the nozzle of the distributor of a flotation column according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of the nozzle of the distributor of a flotation column according to one embodiment of this application, taken from another angle; Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of an angle of a flotation column according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 A schematic structural diagram of a flotation column from another angle, according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 7 A schematic structural diagram of a flotation column from another angle, according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 8 A schematic structural diagram of a flotation column according to another embodiment provided in this application.

[0016] in, Figures 1 to 8 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows: 100 distributor, 200 column, 300 bubble generator, 400 mixer, 500 sieve plate, 600 guide plate, 700 inlet pipe; 110 Base, 120 Nozzle; 121 Housing, 122 Nozzle; 1211 First Housing, 1212 Second Housing, 1221 Nozzle Outlet, 1222 Nozzle Inlet; 210 Flotation cell, 220 Conical cell, 230 Fixed ring, 240 Telescopic rod, 250 Feed inlet, 260 Tailings outlet, 270 Concentrate outlet. Detailed Implementation

[0017] To better understand the above technical solutions, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application and the specific features in the embodiments are detailed descriptions of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, rather than limitations on the technical solutions of this application. In the absence of conflict, the embodiments of this application and the technical features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0018] like Figures 1 to 8As shown in the embodiment of this application, a flotation column is proposed, comprising: a column body 200, a feed inlet 250 formed at the top of the column body 200 having a concentrate outlet 270, and a tailings outlet 260 formed at the bottom; a distributor 100, which is disposed inside the column body 200, and includes a base 110 and a plurality of nozzles 120, one end of the plurality of nozzles 120 being connected to the base 110, and the plurality of nozzles 120 being inclined in both the height and width directions relative to the base 110; a bubble generator 300, which is connected to the distributor 100; and a mixer 400, which is disposed between the distributor 100 and the bubble generator 300.

[0019] The flotation column provided in this embodiment includes a column 200, a distributor 100, a bubble generator 300, and a mixer 400. During use, the slurry is supplied into the column 200 through the feed inlet 250. Then, the bubble generator 300 is turned on, and bubbles are output through the distributor 100. The mixer 400 is turned on, and water and bubbles are mixed in the mixer 400. Then, the gas-liquid mixed medium flow is output through the bubble generator 300, which can make the slurry, flotation reagents and bubbles more uniformly mixed. The bubbles come into contact with the minerals in the slurry. Hydrophobic minerals in the slurry are captured by the bubbles and discharged through the concentrate outlet 270, while hydrophilic minerals are not captured by the bubbles and are discharged through the tailings outlet 260. Based on this, the separation of useful minerals and gangue minerals can be completed. The flotation column provided in this embodiment includes a distributor 100 comprising a base 110 and a plurality of nozzles 120. One end of each nozzle 120 is connected to the base 110. The nozzles 120 are inclined relative to the base 110 in both height and width directions. Since the base 110 can be arranged horizontally in its width direction, its height direction can be arranged vertically. The inclined arrangement of the nozzles 120 relative to both height and width directions allows them to be tilted relative to both the horizontal and vertical directions. Therefore, when bubbles are output through the nozzles 120, the bubbles can be output along the tilted direction. This design makes the jet of bubbles more uniform, and for target minerals that fall without attached bubbles, they are repeatedly agitated by the bubbles output from the nozzle 120, increasing the interaction opportunities between bubbles and mineral particles, thereby improving flotation efficiency and mineral recovery. Furthermore, the inclined nozzle 120 creates a stable rotating flow field in the flotation machine, resulting in higher surface wettability of the minerals, reducing fluid waste and thus the total amount of fluid required during flotation, lowering energy consumption. Moreover, the inclined nozzle 120 facilitates the formation of a rotating flow field; due to centrifugal force, heavier tailings tend to accumulate towards the center of the flow field, facilitating tailings discharge. Multiple inclined nozzles 120 improve flotation performance by optimizing the movement trajectories of bubbles and ore particles. The rotating flow field ensures uniform distribution and good radial contact between bubbles and ore particles, thereby improving flotation efficiency. In addition, the rotating flow field can pre-remove coarse gangue, reducing gangue over-grinding, lowering energy consumption, and reducing concentrate contamination.

[0020] The flotation column provided in this embodiment, through the arrangement of the distributor 100 and mixer 400, can significantly improve the separation and recovery rate of coarse-grained ore, thereby improving the utilization efficiency of ore resources. The rationally designed inclined nozzle 120 of the distributor 100 can reduce energy consumption and environmental pollution. It is understood that the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 design is suitable for various types of ores and separation processes, has a wide range of applications, and provides a reliable and efficient solution for mineral processing.

[0021] In summary, the flotation columns provided in this application are of great significance for improving ore separation efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing concentrate contamination. The development of these technologies will drive the mineral processing industry towards greater efficiency and sustainability, making a significant contribution to the sustainable utilization of mineral resources.

[0022] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, in one possible embodiment, the column 200 includes a flotation shell forming a flotation cell 210 and a conical cell 220, and a distributor 100 is arranged at the transition between the flotation cell 210 and the conical cell.

[0023] In this technical solution, the column 200 is further provided. The column 200 may include a flotation shell, which forms a flotation cell 210 and a conical cell 220. During use, water can be injected through the bottom of the flotation shell, i.e. the conical cell. The water flow is buffered and rectified in the conical cell and then output into the flotation cell 210 of the flotation shell. The water flow and the air bubbles work together. The air bubbles capture hydrophobic minerals, and the water flow provides kinetic energy for the minerals to rise. Finally, the air bubbles can carry the hydrophobic minerals out through the concentrate outlet 270.

[0024] like Figure 8 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the column 200 further includes: a fixing ring 230 arranged at the transition between the flotation cell 210 and the conical cell 220; and a plurality of telescopic rods 240, one end of which is connected to the fixing ring, and the base 110 is connected to the other end of which.

[0025] In this technical solution, a fixing ring 230 can be provided on the column 200, and the base 110 of the distributor 100 is connected to the fixing ring 230 through multiple telescopic rods 240. Based on this, the tilt angle of the distributor 100 relative to the column 200 can be adjusted by controlling the extension and retraction of the telescopic rods 240, which makes it easier to control the output angle of the bubbles within the column 200 and facilitates the adjustment of the gas distribution mode of the multiple distributors 100, so that the flotation column can be adapted to the analysis of different minerals to achieve the best distribution effect and enable the flotation machine to have better flotation performance.

[0026] like Figure 8 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the flotation column further includes a sieve plate 500, which is connected to the inner wall of the column body 200.

[0027] In this technical solution, the flotation column may also include a sieve plate 500, which is connected to the inner wall of the column body 200. Based on this, the concentrate minerals carried by the bubbles need to pass through the sieve plate 500 before being discharged through the concentrate outlet 270. Based on this, the sieve plate 500 can break up the agglomerated minerals and improve the grade of the concentrate.

[0028] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes a classifier, the output of which is connected to the feed inlet 250.

[0029] In this technical solution, the flotation column may also include a classifier. By setting up the classifier, the raw ore pulp can be classified, so that minerals of the target particle size can enter the flotation column, making the flotation more targeted and improving the separation effect of flotation.

[0030] In some examples, the classifier can be equipped with an external hydrocyclone classifier to classify the incoming particles, providing a basis for point-to-point feeding of materials of different particle sizes. For the fine particle size, a bubble generator 300 is used at the feeding point to increase the collision probability between fine particles and bubbles in a highly turbulent environment, effectively solving the problem of fine-grained minerals in traditional fluidized flotation. For the coarse particle size, the feed pipe is used to feed into the flotation column 200. A large number of microbubbles are introduced through the bubble generator 300, and a flotation flow field environment with low fluid disturbance and high microbubble content is constructed with the help of the fluid distributor 100, effectively suppressing turbulent dissipation and facilitating the fluidized flotation recovery of coarse minerals.

[0031] In one feasible implementation, the flotation column further includes a controller, which includes a memory storing a computer program and a processor executing the computer program. The processor, when executing the computer program, performs the following: acquiring fineness information of the minerals output from the classifier; and determining the frequency and pore size of the bubbles output from the bubble generator 300 based on the fineness information of the minerals.

[0032] In this technical solution, the flotation column may also include a controller, which executes a computer program to obtain the fineness information of the minerals output by the classifier. Then, based on the fineness information of the minerals, the frequency and aperture of the bubbles output by the bubble generator 300 are determined. Based on this, the frequency and aperture of the bubbles output by the distributor 100 can be correlated with the fineness of the minerals, which can make the flotation control more precise and can maximize the grade of the concentrate while ensuring the recovery rate.

[0033] In some examples, the frequency and pore size of the bubbles output by the bubble generator 300 are determined based on the fineness information of the minerals using the following formula: cd=arcsinF LnD Where c is the slurry concentration, d is the slurry fineness, F is the frequency of the output bubbles, and D is the bubble pore size.

[0034] In this technical solution, the specific methods for determining the frequency and pore size of bubbles are further clarified, so that the output of the distributor 100 can be related to the fineness and concentration of the minerals, which can make the control of flotation more precise and can maximize the grade of the concentrate while ensuring the recovery rate.

[0035] In this technical solution, by determining the above formula, when the pulp concentration, pulp fineness, and one of the output bubble frequency and bubble aperture are clear, the other of the bubble frequency and bubble aperture can be calculated, which facilitates the debugging of the flotation column.

[0036] like Figure 8 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the flotation column further includes: a plurality of guide plates 600, which are arranged in pairs on the inner wall of the column 200, with one end of the guide plate 600 hinged to the column 200 and the other end extending in the direction of the distributor 100.

[0037] In this technical solution, the flotation machine may also include multiple guide plates 600. One end of the guide plate 600 is hinged to the inner wall of the column 200, and the other end extends toward the distributor 100. Based on this, by adjusting the inclination angle of the guide plate 600, the divergence angle of the bubbles output through the distributor 100 can be adjusted, which facilitates the control of the propagation speed of the bubbles in the flotation shell, making it easier to adapt the flotation machine to different types and requirements of minerals, and increasing the applicability of the flotation machine.

[0038] like Figures 5 to 8 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the flotation column further includes a water inlet pipe 700, which passes through the tailings outlet 260 and is disposed within the column body 200.

[0039] In this technical solution, the flotation column may also include an inlet pipe 700, which passes through the tailings outlet 260. Based on this, the inlet pipe 700 and the tailings outlet 260 can be arranged coaxially, which helps to simplify the structure of the flotation column. During use, water can be injected into the column body 200 through the inlet pipe 700. The water flow is buffered and rectified in the conical pool, and then output to the flotation pool 210 of the flotation shell. The water flow and the air bubbles work together. The air bubbles capture hydrophobic minerals, and the water flow provides kinetic energy for the minerals to rise. Finally, the air bubbles can carry the hydrophobic minerals out through the concentrate outlet 270.

[0040] In some examples, a middlings discharge port can also be formed above the column 200, positioned between the concentrate outlet 270 and the tailings outlet 260. Based on this, and through the characteristics of the thick foam layer and the structural design of the middlings discharge port, the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 achieves the separate discharge of middlings products from the flotation column. The thick foam layer and spray water device perform secondary separation of particle bubble agglomerates and fine gangue particles in the upflow, discharging the fine concentrate, while the fine concentrate particle flocs and fine gangue particles are blocked and retained in the slurry phase. In addition, the screen hydrocyclone classifies the slurry discharged from the middlings discharge port, achieving the removal of fine gangue from the product and effectively preventing coarse hydrophobic particles from adhering to bubbles and entering the hydrocyclone overflow.

[0041] The flotation column provided in this embodiment, after the column body 200 is filled with fluidizing water, a bubble generator 300 injects fluidizing water and microbubbles into the flotation column 200 to form a low-turbulence flotation environment. After the flotation column 200 is filled with fluidizing water, different particle size components of wide-sized feed particles are injected into it. Particle bubble agglomerates and fine gangue particles float to the top of the flotation column 200 and undergo secondary classification and separation under the action of the foam layer.

[0042] The distributor 100 can spray a water-air mixture upwards, forming an inclined flow field. Nozzles 120 spray upwards at an inclined angle, and the number of nozzles 120 is evenly distributed on the device. The inclined spray direction and structural design create a rotating, upward-floating flow field, increasing the mixing degree of bubbles and mineral particles and improving their contact opportunities. This makes the flotation column suitable for the highly turbulent environment of fine-grained minerals and the low-turbulent dissipation flow field suitable for coarse-grained recovery, and allows for point feeding of materials of corresponding particle sizes, achieving efficient separation of materials across a wide particle size range.

[0043] The flotation column provided in this application embodiment has at least the following beneficial effects: Enhancing the interaction opportunities between minerals and bubbles: The distributor 100 with its innovative nozzle 120 design features a more uniform jet flow, with the number of nozzles 120 evenly distributed on the base 110. The inclined jet direction and structural design create an inclined flow field, increasing the mixing degree of minerals and bubbles and improving their contact opportunities. This rotating upward flow field of the jet flow helps to improve the problem of uneven contact between minerals and bubbles in traditional flotation technologies, thereby improving flotation efficiency.

[0044] Constructing a suitable flow field environment for the separation of fine and coarse particles: The distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 works in conjunction with other key structures to create a highly turbulent environment suitable for fine-grained minerals and a low-turbulent dissipation flow field suitable for coarse particle recovery within a single device through point feeding and key structural design. The bubble generator 300 increases the collision probability between fine particles and bubbles in the highly turbulent environment, solving the problem of fine-grained minerals. At the same time, the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 and the fluid distributor 100 create a flotation flow field environment with low fluid disturbance and high microbubble content, which is beneficial for the fluidized flotation recovery of coarse minerals.

[0045] In summary, the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 plays a crucial role in the fluidized bed flotation method and apparatus for wide-range particles. By improving the contact opportunities between minerals and bubbles, creating a flow field environment suitable for the separation of fine and coarse particles, and enhancing the classification effect, it achieves the goals of improving flotation efficiency and recovery rate, reducing resource waste, and adapting to different processing environments and needs. The flotation column provided in this application embodiment can improve the flotation efficiency and recovery rate of minerals, reduce resource waste, and adapt to different processing environments and needs, providing a reliable and efficient solution for the mineral processing field.

[0046] Working principle: The working principle of the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 and the flotation device is as follows: Working principle of distributor 100 with nozzle 120 inclined design: The distributor 100 with the inclined nozzle 120 design features an innovative nozzle 120 design, resulting in a more uniform jet flow. The number of nozzles 120 is evenly distributed on the device.

[0047] Nozzle 120 is tilted upwards to spray, creating an inclined flow field. The tilt angle can be adjusted according to the requirements of the fluidized bed to control the spray direction and range.

[0048] The inclined injection direction and structural design create an inclined flow field, which increases the mixing degree of minerals and bubbles and improves their contact opportunities.

[0049] The rotating upward flow of the inclined jet flow field helps to improve the problem of uneven contact between minerals and bubbles in traditional flotation technology.

[0050] Working principle of flotation equipment: The flotation equipment includes a distributor 100 with an inclined nozzle 120 and a flotation column 200. Fluidized water and microbubbles are injected into the flotation column 200 to create a low-turbulence flotation environment. After the flotation column 200 is filled with fluidized water, different particle sizes of wide-sized feed particles are injected. Under the action of the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120, minerals and bubbles interact, forming particle bubble agglomerates and fine gangue particles that float to the top of the flotation column 200. Secondary classification and separation occur under the action of the froth layer at the top of the flotation column 200. Fine concentrate enters the froth layer and is eventually discharged, while fine concentrate particle flocs and fine gangue are impeded and retained in the slurry phase, discharged through the middlings outlet. Furthermore, an external hydraulic classifier hydrocyclone further classifies the feed particles, providing a basis for point-to-point feeding of materials of different particle sizes. The coarse-grained stage uses a feed column 200 through a feed pipe, introduces a large number of microbubbles through a bubble generator 300, and constructs a flotation flow field environment with low fluid disturbance and high microbubble content with the help of a fluid distributor 100. This effectively suppresses turbulent dissipation in the flow field and is conducive to the fluidized flotation recovery of coarse-grained minerals.

[0051] In some examples, the flotation column may also include a screen hydrocyclone to classify the slurry discharged from the middlings outlet, thereby removing fine gangue from the product and effectively preventing coarse hydrophobic particles from adhering to air bubbles and overflowing into the hydrocyclone.

[0052] Based on the above working principle, the distributor 100 with the inclined nozzle 120 and the flotation equipment can improve the flotation efficiency and recovery rate of minerals, reduce resource waste, and adapt to different processing environments and needs.

[0053] The implementation effect of the technical solution: Based on the above, the implementation effects of the distributor 100 with the inclined nozzle 120 and the flotation equipment can be summarized as follows: Improving flotation efficiency: The innovative design of the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 makes the jet flow more uniform and creates an inclined flow field, increasing the opportunities for interaction between minerals and bubbles. This helps to improve the problem of uneven contact between minerals and bubbles in traditional flotation technology, thus improving flotation efficiency.

[0054] Improving mineral recovery: The swirling upward flow of the inclined jet field and the low-turbulence flotation environment within the 200mm flotation column facilitate the formation of particle bubble aggregates and the flotation of fine gangue particles. Through the action of the froth layer and secondary classification, fine concentrate can be effectively discharged, thereby improving mineral recovery.

[0055] High-efficiency separation across a wide particle size range: The point-feeding and key structural design of this device simultaneously creates a highly turbulent environment suitable for fine-grained minerals and a low-turbulent dissipation flow field suitable for coarse-grained recovery. The introduction of the bubble generator 300 and the fluid distributor 100 enables efficient separation of materials across a wide particle size range.

[0056] Fine gangue removal: An external hydrocyclone classifies the incoming flotation particles, and a screen hydrocyclone further classifies the slurry discharged from the middlings outlet, thus removing fine gangue from the product. This effectively improves the product's quality and purity.

[0057] Adaptable to different processing environments and needs: The spray direction and range of the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 can be adjusted according to the requirements of the fluidized bed to meet the needs of different processing environments. Furthermore, the various technical solutions in this device can be combined to achieve more optimal combinations, improving the flexibility and adaptability of the device.

[0058] In summary, the distributor 100 with its inclined nozzle 120 and flotation equipment demonstrate significant effectiveness in improving flotation efficiency, mineral recovery, and wide-range high-efficiency separation, as well as achieving fine gangue removal and adapting to different processing environments and requirements. This provides a reliable and efficient solution for the mineral processing field, and is expected to bring substantial economic and environmental benefits in practical applications.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the nozzle 120 includes: a housing 121 and a plurality of nozzles 122 disposed within the housing 121, wherein the plurality of nozzles 122 are inclined relative to the base 110 in both the height and width directions.

[0060] In this technical solution, a nozzle 120 is further provided. Each nozzle 120 may include a housing 121 and a nozzle pipe 122 disposed in the housing 121. Based on this, the airflow can be output through the nozzle pipe 122. The setting of the nozzle pipe 122 facilitates the inclined arrangement of the nozzle 120. On the other hand, the setting of the nozzle pipe 122 facilitates the control of the airflow velocity, which can increase the contact opportunity between the bubbles and the minerals, thereby improving the recovery rate.

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, a plurality of nozzles 120 share a first housing 1211, and each nozzle 122 is inclinedly disposed within the first housing 1211.

[0062] In this technical solution, a method of setting multiple nozzles 120 is further provided. Multiple nozzles 120 can share a housing 121, that is, all nozzles 122 are arranged in a housing 121. Multiple nozzles 122 can be divided into multiple groups to form multiple nozzles 120. This setting can improve the mechanical strength and operational stability of the distributor 100, thereby improving the service life of the distributor 100.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, in one possible embodiment, each nozzle 120 has a nozzle 122 equipped with a second housing 1212, which is inclined relative to the base 110 in both height and width directions.

[0064] In this technical solution, another arrangement of the nozzles 120 is provided. Each nozzle 120 can be equipped with a second housing 1212. That is, each second housing 1212 is provided with multiple nozzles 122. The multiple second housings 1212 are arranged at intervals, so that the nozzles 120 are connected to the base 110. At the same time, the nozzles 120 are arranged at an angle. Based on this, during the use of the distributor 100, the angled nozzles 120 can form a stable rotating flow field. Due to the centrifugal force, the heavier tailings will gather towards the center of the flow field. This part of the tailings can be transported through the gap between two adjacent second housings 1212, which facilitates the discharge of tailings.

[0065] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in some examples, to facilitate the processing of the second shell 1212 and to avoid the second shell 1212 from obstructing the discharge of tailings, the second shell 1212 can be in block shape.

[0066] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, a plurality of nozzles 120 are arranged in a ring, and the base 110 is ring-shaped.

[0067] This technical solution further provides an arrangement of multiple nozzles 120 and a base 110. The multiple nozzles 120 are arranged in a ring, and the inclined nozzles 120 facilitate the formation of a rotating flow field. Due to centrifugal force, heavier tailings will accumulate towards the center of the flow field and be discharged through the central ring of the nozzle 120 device. Other tailings can also fall through the gaps between the nozzles 120. This effectively reduces tailings congestion and facilitates stable and continuous operation of the equipment.

[0068] In one feasible implementation, the tilt angle of the nozzle 120 is determined based on the maximum orifice diameter of the nozzle 122 and the number of nozzles 120.

[0069] In this technical solution, a method for determining the tilt angle of the nozzle 120 is further provided. With such a setting, at least the tilt angle of the nozzle 120 is related to the maximum orifice diameter of the nozzle 122 and the number of nozzles 120, ensuring that enough bubbles can be produced to contact the minerals, while facilitating the formation of a stable swirling field.

[0070] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in one feasible embodiment, the plurality of nozzles 122 within each nozzle 120 are arranged in two or more rows, the space of the nozzle outlet 1221 of the plurality of nozzles 122 in each row increases along a first direction, and the nozzle inlet 1222 is connected to the base 110.

[0071] In this technical solution, a further arrangement of multiple nozzles 122 within each nozzle 120 is provided. Each nozzle 120 includes multiple nozzles 122, which are arranged in a row. Each nozzle 122 includes a nozzle hole, so that each row includes multiple nozzle holes. The radius of the multiple nozzle holes in each row increases sequentially to increase the flow rate, increase the kinetic energy of the fluid, and make the fluid sprayed more evenly onto the mineral surface.

[0072] In one feasible implementation, the tilt angle of the nozzle 120 is determined by the following formula: H / L=(SH) / (n-1)d(1) H 2 +L 2 =S 2 (2) α = arctan (H / L) (3) like Figure 3 As shown, H represents the vertical height of nozzle 120, L represents the projected length of nozzle 120 in the horizontal direction, S represents the length of nozzle 122, n is the number of rows of nozzles 122 within a single nozzle 120, d is the maximum orifice diameter of nozzle 122, and α is the tilt angle of nozzle 120, where α is defined as the angle between the axis of nozzle 120 and the horizontal direction.

[0073] This technical solution further provides a design method for the tilt angle of the nozzle 120. This setting facilitates the quantification of the design angle of the nozzle 120, enabling the flow emitted through the nozzle 120 to be sprayed more evenly onto the mineral surface, and increasing the opportunity for interaction between the mineral and the air bubbles. In one feasible implementation, the orifice diameter of the nozzle 122 gradually increases from the input end to the output end. This arrangement allows for a more uniform flow rate of bubbles output through the nozzle 122.

[0074] In one feasible implementation, the orifice diameter of the nozzle 122 gradually decreases from the input end to the output end. This configuration allows for a faster flow rate of bubbles output through the nozzle 122.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the nozzle 120 is detachably connected to the base 110, and a seal is provided between the nozzle 120 and the base 110.

[0076] The nozzle 120 is detachably connected to the base 110, making the maintenance of the distributor 100 more convenient. A seal is provided between the nozzle 120 and the base 110 to reduce the probability of impurities entering between the base 110 and the nozzle 120, ensuring the reliability of the distributor 100.

[0077] In some examples, in order to overcome the problem that the flotation process is prone to uneven contact between minerals and bubbles, few contact opportunities, and poor flotation effect, this application provides a distributor 100 that generates a rotating upward flow field.

[0078] The distributor 100, through modifications to the tilt direction and structural design of the nozzles 120, ensures that the nozzles 120 are tilted relative to the base 110 in both height and width. This results in a more uniform jet flow, and for target minerals without attached bubbles, the nozzles 120 repeatedly agitate them, increasing the interaction between bubbles and mineral particles, thereby improving flotation efficiency and mineral recovery. The distributor 100 consists of multiple nozzles 120 and a base 110. When the distributor 100 is used within a flotation machine, the nozzles 120 spray upwards at an angle, and the number of nozzles 120 is evenly distributed. The bottom of the nozzles 120 is connected to the base 110, which is used to fix and support the nozzles 120. The design of the nozzles 120 includes the tilt angle of the nozzle groups, the number of nozzle groups, and their distribution.

[0079] The nozzle tilt angle of 120° is calculated using the following formula: H / L=(SH) / (n-1)d(1) H 2 +L 2 =S 2 (2) α = arctan (H / L) (3) like Figure 3 As shown, H represents the vertical height of nozzle 120, L represents the projected length of nozzle 120 in the horizontal direction, S represents the length of nozzle 122, n is the number of rows of nozzles 122 within a single nozzle 120, d is the maximum orifice diameter of nozzle 122, and α is the tilt angle of nozzle 120, where α is defined as the angle between the axis of nozzle 120 and the horizontal direction.

[0080] In some examples, with S=50mm and d=5mm, substituting into the above equation set (1)(2)(3), the H, L, and α parameters of the nozzle 120 group under different nozzle 120 row numbers n in Table 1 can be obtained.

[0081] Table 1. Partial Design Parameters of Nozzle 120

[0082] In this embodiment, the mineral particles are given 3 flotation opportunities (n=3). According to formulas (1)(2)(3), the vertical height H of nozzle 120 is calculated to be 38.1765mm, the horizontal distance L from the outlet to the inlet of nozzle 120 is 32.2886mm, and the tilt angle α of nozzle 120 group is 49.78°.

[0083] The distributor device uses a circular base 110, with an outer diameter of 180 mm, an inner diameter of 80 mm, and a height of 20 mm, providing structural support and fluid injection for the upper nozzles 120. Sixteen inclined block nozzles 120 are evenly arranged on the base 110. Each block nozzle 120 has 36 nozzle tubes 122, totaling 576 nozzle tubes 122. Within each nozzle 120, the nozzle tubes 122 are divided into three rows, with 12 nozzle holes per row. The smallest nozzle hole diameter is 2 mm, and the largest is 4.74 mm. They are cylindrical, all with a length of 50 mm, and the radius increases sequentially to increase flow rate and kinetic energy of the fluid, allowing for more uniform spraying of the fluid onto the mineral surface.

[0084] The flotation machine has a slurry poured in at the top and flotated minerals discharged at the bottom, while bottom slag is discharged at the bottom. The slurry is poured into the flotation machine, and then a gas-water mixture is fed into the base 110. As the gas-water mixture enters from the bottom of the nozzle 120, it is compressed and accelerated, entering the nozzle 120 and being ejected through the cylindrical nozzle outlet, carrying a large number of fine air bubbles. These bubbles, upon entering the slurry, interact with the mineral particles, forming a gas-liquid interface on their surface. This interface has high affinity and surface tension. As the bubbles rise to the surface, they carry the mineral particles attached to their surface, thus achieving mineral separation and recovery.

[0085] The tilt angle and structural design of nozzle 120 create a rotating flow field, generating a large tangential velocity during the contact between the air-water mixture and the slurry. This creates circulation, increasing the contact time and intensity between the minerals and the fluid. Target minerals that fall without attached air bubbles will be repeatedly blown up by nozzle 120. During this process, target minerals are continuously blown away from the bottom of the flotation machine and floated to the surface. At this point, because the unwanted impurities are heavier, they tend to move towards the center of the flow field due to inertia and sink, exiting the flotation machine through the middle of the distributor. Lighter target minerals move outwards and float to the top of the flotation machine. Simultaneously, the stable flow field facilitates the discharge of tailings and prevents clogging near nozzle 120.

[0086] In specific implementations, the tilt angle of the nozzle 120 can be adjusted according to the mineral type and processing requirements. Furthermore, the geometry of the nozzle 120 can also be designed according to actual needs. For example, in specific implementations, the nozzle 120 can adopt a scaling structure. In addition, multiple nozzles 120 can be combined as needed to make the flow field more uniform. Specifically, multiple nozzles 120 can be arranged according to the required flotation processing capacity and equipment space, and connected to the same fluid pipeline.

[0087] In summary, the distributor 100 device for generating a rotating upward flow field provided by the present invention has been optimized and innovated in many aspects such as tilt angle, nozzle distribution and number, and geometric structure design. It can effectively improve mineral flotation efficiency, reduce production costs, and has broad application prospects.

[0088] In some examples, the base 110 and nozzle 120 of the distributor 100 are both made of wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant materials. The nozzle 120 uses a ring-shaped base 110, the size of which is designed according to the size of the flotation machine. The base 110 provides structural support and fluid injection for the nozzle 120 above. Multiple inclined block-shaped nozzles can be evenly arranged on the base 110, with each block-shaped nozzle 120 having multiple small nozzles. Within each nozzle 120, there are several rows, each row including multiple nozzles, using a cylindrical design. The radii of the multiple nozzles in each row increase sequentially to increase the flow rate, increase the kinetic energy of the fluid, and make the fluid more evenly sprayed onto the mineral surface.

[0089] Furthermore, the components of nozzle 120 need to be designed to achieve optimal flotation results, specifically including the following: 1. The tilt angle of nozzle 120 can be designed and adjusted according to different application scenarios. The tilt angle of nozzle 120 is reasonably calculated according to requirements and can be selected based on factors such as the properties of the fluid, the characteristics of the flotation material, and the throughput.

[0090] 2. The optimized nozzle 120 structure features a block design for each nozzle 120. The number of rows of nozzles 122 within each nozzle 120 can be adjusted according to the specific flotation production process requirements to meet different production needs. The number of rows of nozzles 120 can be single or multiple, with multiple nozzle holes distributed in each row. The nozzles are cylindrical with progressively increasing nozzle radii to increase flow rate and ensure more uniform fluid distribution onto the mineral surface, thereby increasing the interaction opportunities between the minerals and air bubbles. Specifically, multiple nozzles 120 can be arranged according to the required flotation capacity and equipment space, and connected to the same base 110 fluid pipeline.

[0091] 3. The nozzle 120 can adopt a structure design such as a tapered nozzle 122 or a gradually expanding and contracting nozzle to form a finer jet flow field, thereby achieving a more efficient flotation effect. In addition, the nozzle 120 can adopt various shapes, such as circular, elliptical, and rectangular, to adapt to the needs of different mineral particle sizes and flotation machine structures.

[0092] 4. For ease of maintenance and replacement, the base 110 of the nozzle 120 can be detachable. Additionally, the nozzle 120 assembly can be designed as a replaceable modular structure for easy on-site maintenance and replacement.

[0093] 5. Furthermore, to further improve the service life and stability of the nozzle 120, a seal can be installed at the interface between the nozzle 120 and the base 110 to prevent fluid leakage and impurity entry. Additionally, a protective cover can be installed around the nozzle 120 to prevent damage from mineral particles or other impurities.

[0094] The distributor 100 provided in this application embodiment has at least the following beneficial effects: Improving flotation efficiency: The distributor tilting nozzle 120 can improve the uniformity of fluid jetting, allowing minerals and fluids to come into more complete contact, increasing the contact opportunities between minerals and fluids. For target minerals that fall without attached bubbles, they will be blown up multiple times by the nozzle 120, increasing the interaction opportunities between bubbles and mineral particles. This makes the minerals easier to float, and the minerals can complete the flotation in a shorter time, reducing production costs and thus improving flotation efficiency and mineral recovery rate.

[0095] Reduced energy consumption: The inclined nozzle 120 creates a stable rotating flow field in the flotation machine, resulting in higher surface wettability of the minerals and reduced fluid waste. This reduces the total amount of fluid required during the flotation process, thus lowering energy consumption.

[0096] Reduced congestion: The inclined nozzle 120 facilitates the formation of a rotating flow field. Due to centrifugal force, heavier tailings will gather towards the center of the flow field and be discharged through the central ring of the nozzle 120 device. Other tailings can also fall through the gaps in the nozzle 120. This effectively reduces tailings congestion and promotes stable and continuous operation of the equipment.

[0097] In summary, the distributor 100 device of this invention, which generates a rotating upward flow field, is technically innovative and practical, and has obvious application prospects and commercial value.

[0098] In this invention, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0099] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or unit referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0100] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0101] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A flotation column, characterized in that, include: A column, wherein a feed inlet is formed at the top of the column where a concentrate outlet is formed, and a tailings outlet is formed at the bottom; A distributor is disposed within the column. The distributor includes a base and a plurality of nozzles. One end of the plurality of nozzles is connected to the base. The width direction of the base is arranged horizontally. The plurality of nozzles are inclined relative to the height and width directions of the base. A bubble generator, wherein the bubble generator is connected to the distributor; A mixer disposed between the distributor and the bubble generator; The nozzle includes: The housing and a plurality of nozzles disposed within the housing, wherein the plurality of nozzles are inclined relative to the height and width directions of the base; In each nozzle, multiple nozzles are arranged in multiple rows, and the space at the nozzle outlet of each row increases along a first direction. The tilt angle of the nozzle is determined by the following formula: Where H represents the vertical height of the nozzle, L represents the projected length of the nozzle in the horizontal direction, S represents the length of the nozzle tube, n is the number of rows of multiple nozzle tubes in a single nozzle, d is the maximum orifice diameter of the nozzle tube, and α is the tilt angle of the nozzle, where α is defined as the angle between the nozzle axis and the horizontal direction.

2. The flotation column according to claim 1, characterized in that, The column includes: A flotation shell, the flotation shell forming a flotation cell and a conical cell, the distributor being arranged at the transition between the flotation cell and the conical cell.

3. The flotation column according to claim 2, characterized in that, The column also includes: A fixing ring is arranged at the transition between the flotation cell and the conical cell; Multiple telescopic rods, one end of which is connected to the fixing ring, and the base is connected to the other end of the multiple telescopic rods.

4. The flotation column according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A sieve plate, the sieve plate being connected to the inner wall of the column; A classifier, wherein the output end of the classifier is connected to the feed inlet.

5. The flotation column according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: Controller, the controller includes: Memory, which stores computer programs; The processor executes the computer program; When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the following: Obtain the fineness information of the minerals output from the classifier; Based on the fineness information of the mineral, the frequency and pore size of the bubbles output by the bubble generator are determined.

6. The flotation column according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The nozzle is detachably connected to the base, and a seal is provided between the nozzle and the base.

7. The flotation column according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Also includes: Multiple guide plates are arranged in pairs on the inner wall of the column. One end of each guide plate is hinged to the column, and the other end extends toward the distributor.

8. The flotation column according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Also includes: A water inlet pipe is installed inside the column, passing through the tailings outlet.

Images