Gasification fluid supply device and flotation cell

Abstract

A gasification fluid supply device (1700) and a flotation cell (1000) are disclosed. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) includes a manifold (1701) and one or more tube distributors (1703) connected to the manifold (1701). The one or more tube distributors (1703) include one or more nozzles (1704). The manifold (1701) is configured to distribute gasification fluid to the one or more tube distributors (1703). The one or more nozzles (1704) are configured to inject gasification fluid into at least one of: a supply region (F), a collector region (C), and / or a central region (Z) of the tank (1100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to mineral processing. In particular, the present disclosure relates to separating minerals from their ores by flotation. Background Art

[0002] The energy consumption of the comminution process (especially grinding) usually accounts for a large part of the total energy consumption in mineral processing. Therefore, great efforts have been invested in reducing the energy consumption of grinding. This can usually be achieved by reducing the degree of liberation of the ore, that is, by increasing the average size of the ore particles before concentration. Standard mechanical flotation cells are best suited for separating particles in the size range of about 20μm to 150μm. Therefore, alternative solutions are needed to increase the average particle size of the ore to above 150μm. Utility Model Content

[0003] This summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form that will be further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. The independent claims set forth the scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0004] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure provide a flotation cell for processing particles suspended in a slurry and separating the slurry into an underflow and an overflow. The flotation cell may include a gasification fluid supply configured to distribute gasification fluid (e.g., aerated water) to a central region of the tank. The purpose may be, but is not limited to, primary gasification near a crowder area of ​​the process tank.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a gasification fluid supply device includes: a manifold; and one or more pipe distributors connected to the manifold, wherein the one or more pipe distributors include one or more nozzles, wherein the manifold is arranged to distribute the gasification fluid to the one or more pipe distributors; and the one or more nozzles are configured to inject the gasification fluid into at least one of the following areas: a supply area, a collector area, and / or a central area of ​​the tank. The supply area, the collector area, and the central area may be horizontal areas of the tank. The gasification fluid supply device is, for example, an aerated fluid supply device. For example, the one or more gasification fluid generators are aerated fluid generators. For example, the gasification fluid is aerated water. The gasification fluid may include bubbles and fluid (e.g., water and air bubbles). The gasification fluid may include bubbles and slurry (e.g., slurry and air bubbles). For example, the gasification fluid supply device may include a plurality of pipe distributors, such as 12 pipe distributors, or 120 pipe distributors, or 300 pipe distributors, or 720 pipe distributors. The manifold can enable multiple pipe distributors to inject gasification fluid from the central area, supply area and / or collector area of ​​the process tank. It can also enable multiple (e.g., 4, or 40, or 100, or 240 gasification fluid generators) to inject gasification fluid into the pipe distributor.

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the gasification fluid supply device may include one or more gasification fluid generators connected to a manifold. The manifold may be arranged to distribute the gasification fluid from the one or more gasification fluid generators to the one or more tube distributors.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the manifold is at least a connection point between the at least one flow generator and the at least one tube distributor.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the manifold is a part of a connection member or a connector between the at least one gasification fluid generator and the at least one tube distributor.

[0009] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the manifold is part of a connection member between a gasification fluid generator and a tube distributor.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, one or more nozzles can be directed downward. When the one or more nozzles are directed downward, they can be prevented from clogging. The nozzles can be used to control at least one of the following: the flow rate, velocity, direction, quality, shape, and / or pressure of the gasified fluid discharged from the nozzles.

[0011] According to exemplary embodiments of the first aspect, one or more pipe distributors may extend radially from the manifold or parallel to one another. "Radially" means that the pipe distributors can extend horizontally from the center of the tank to the periphery or wall area of ​​the tank, or from the wall area or periphery area of ​​the tank to the center of the tank. When the manifold is located in the central area of ​​the tank, the pipe distributors can extend radially from the center of the tank toward the periphery. This allows the pipe distributors to primarily supply vaporized fluid from the central area of ​​the tank, while also allowing for some supply from the middle area of ​​the tank and a smaller amount from the periphery. When the manifold is located at the side or end wall of the tank, the pipe distributors can also extend radially from the wall area or periphery area of ​​the tank toward the center of the tank. The manifold can be located outside the tank wall and surround it. The manifold can also be located inside the tank wall, surrounding the inner sidewall of the tank. When the manifold is located at the side wall, it allows the pipe distributors to primarily supply vaporized fluid from the periphery or wall area of ​​the tank, while also allowing for some supply from the middle area of ​​the tank and a smaller amount from the central area of ​​the tank. The middle area is located between the central area and the periphery.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, one or more tube distributors may be arranged to one or more sections, wherein the number of tube distributors in each section may vary or may be the same.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the length of the tube distributors in one or more sections can vary or be the same. The length of the tube distributors in one or more sections can be the length of at least one of the following: the length of the first area, the length of the second area, and / or the length of the third area. For example, the length of the tube distributors in three sections covers the first area, while in the remaining sections, the length of the tube distributors covers all three areas. This allows the tube distributors to supply the gasified fluid where needed. This can also be achieved by adjusting the number and position of the holes in the tube distributors. The length of the tube distributors within a section can vary or be the same. This means that within a section, at least one tube distributor can have one length, and one or more other tube distributors can have the same or different lengths. The length of the tube distributors in one or more sections may not be the length of at least one of the following: the length of the first area, the length of the second area, and / or the length of the third area.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, two or more tube distributors can be arranged equidistant from one another, such that the distance between any two adjacent tube distributors is the same. This allows the tube distributors to evenly distribute the vaporized fluid throughout the entire tank. If the tank is circular, the tube distributors can distribute the vaporized fluid 360° around the tank.

[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, two or more pipe distributors can be arranged at one or more levels. Two or more pipe distributors can be arranged at two levels, for example. Arranging the pipe distributors at different levels can improve the uniform supply and distribution of the gasification fluid.

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the height difference between the two levels of the tube distributor is less than six times the diameter of the tube distributor. This allows the gasified fluid to be fed to the tank in an optimized manner to produce a thick (e.g., 500 mm) calm foam layer in the low tank. In the low tank, the ratio H / D of the flotation tank height H to its diameter D can be less than 2. This height represents the combined height of the foam zone, mixing zone, and settling zone.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the manifold may include one or more manifold inlets arranged to connect the gasification fluid generator to the manifold; and one or more manifold outlets arranged to connect the tube distributor to the manifold. The manifold outlets and manifold inlets may allow different parts to be attached to the manifold.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, one or more manifold outlets can be arranged circumferentially around the manifold or side by side at equal intervals along the manifold, so that the distance between any two adjacent manifold outlets can be the same. This allows the tube distributors to be attached circumferentially and equidistantly around the manifold, which allows them to supply aerated fluid and bubbles around the tank 360° and particularly in the circular center area of ​​the tank. The aerated fluid and bubbles can be distributed around the tank 360°, but with different flow rates along the length of at least one tube distributor. When the tube distributors can be attached side by side along the manifold, they can be allowed to supply the aerated fluid and bubbles to the areas in the tank where they are most needed, particularly the supply area or collector area of ​​the tank. When the tube distributors can be attached side by side, the aerated fluid and bubbles can be distributed to the areas where they are needed at different flow rates along the length of at least one tube distributor. The aerated fluid and bubbles can be distributed within the tank at different flow rates along the length of one or more tube distributors.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the one or more manifold inlets can be arranged above each other. The one or more manifold inlets can be arranged vertically above each other. One manifold inlet can be located at the top of the manifold, one manifold inlet can be located at the bottom of the manifold, and one or more inlets can be provided on one side of the manifold. This can allow the inflation fluid to be evenly distributed to the manifold and from the manifold to the tube distributor.

[0020] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the gasification fluid supply device may include one or more connecting members (connecting means) located between the one or more gasification fluid generators and the manifold, wherein the one or more connecting members may be arranged to connect the one or more gasification fluid generators to the manifold. The connecting member is at least one of the following: a tube, a pipe, a hose and / or a channel. When the gasification fluid generator is located outside the tank, the connecting member may be arranged inside the tank and may be used to connect the gasification fluid generator and the manifold. One or more gasification fluid inlets may connect the one or more gasification fluid generators to the one or more connecting members. The connecting member may also help position the manifold in the center of the tank.

[0021] According to a second aspect, a flotation cell for treating particles suspended in a second slurry and separating the second slurry into an underflow and an overflow is disclosed, wherein the flotation cell comprises: a tank for accommodating a first slurry and a foam layer above the first slurry; at least one supply device configured to supply the second slurry; and at least one gasification fluid supply device according to any one of the first aspects. The manifold can enable a plurality of pipe distributors to inject gasification fluid from at least one of the following areas: a supply area, a collector area, and / or a central area of ​​the treatment tank. It can also enable a plurality of (e.g., 4, or 40, or 100, or 240) gasification fluid generators to inject gasification fluid into the pipe distributor.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, one or more nozzles may be configured to inject the vaporized fluid into at least one first horizontal region of the tank, where the at least one first region may include at least one of the following regions: a feed region, a concentrator region, and / or a central region of the tank. The vaporized fluid may be more concentrated in the concentrator region and / or feed region of the tank. However, a smaller amount of the vaporized fluid may also be distributed to the trough region or the central region of the tank.

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the tank may include at least one horizontal first area, at least one horizontal second area and at least one horizontal third area, wherein at least one first area may include at least one of the following areas: a supply area, a collector area and / or a central area of ​​the tank; the at least one second area may be located between the first area and the third area; and the at least one third area may include at least one of the following areas: a flow channel area, a central area and / or a wall area.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, two or more nozzles can be arranged in each pipe distributor so that the number of nozzles in the first area>(greater than) the number of nozzles in the second area>the number of nozzles in the third area. The first area, the second area and the third area can be circular areas around the central axis or rectangular areas between the flow trough and the crowder. In addition, other types or areas can be formed. The gasified fluid can be concentrated closer to one or more concentrators of the tank, but can also be distributed in small quantities in the second or middle area, and near one or more flow trough areas of the tank. This can be achieved by positioning the nozzles and the gasified fluid flow more to the concentrator and / or supply area of ​​the tank.

[0025] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, one or more nozzles can be arranged to distribute the gasified fluid so that the gasified fluid first flow velocity in the first region>the gasified fluid second flow velocity in the second region>the gasified fluid peripheral third flow velocity in the third region. This can allow most of the gasified fluid to be located in the aggregator region and / or the supply region, from which it can move upward toward the foam layer. This may help coarse particles to remain in the foam layer without falling into the tank. This arrangement can improve the recovery rate of all hydrophobic particles (particularly larger particles).

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the superficial gas velocity within the tank is considered to be the volume flow rate of gas / area of ​​foam, wherein a first superficial gas velocity [cm / s] in the first zone may be from 2 to 7; a second superficial gas velocity in the second zone may be from 1 to 5; and a third superficial gas velocity in the third zone may be from 0 to 3. The superficial gas velocity may be greater in the first zone, where more bubbles may need to move upward toward the foam layer. This may help coarse particles adhere to the bubbles and increase the recovery rate of larger particles.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the vaporized fluid supply device can be arranged below the foam layer. The height difference between the two horizontal pipe distributors is less than one-sixth of the diameter of the pipe distributor. The vaporized fluid supply device can be arranged above the settled underflow particle layer. When the vaporized fluid supply device is arranged below the foam layer, it can effectively move the vaporized fluid toward the foam layer slurry, thereby allowing more coarse particles to adhere to the bubbles.

[0028] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the manifold can be arranged at the center of the tank, parallel to the sidewalls, or horizontally outside the tank. The manifold can be arranged vertically and parallel to the sidewalls at the center of the tank. Placing the vaporized fluid supply device at the center of the tank allows the vaporized fluid to flow from the nozzle into the center of the tank. Placing the vaporized fluid supply device horizontally outside the tank can facilitate manufacturing and increase capacity.

[0029] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the manifold may be arranged vertically inside or outside the tank, or horizontally inside or outside the tank.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the pipe distributor can be arranged vertically relative to the sidewall or horizontally within the tank. Placing the pipe distributor vertically relative to the sidewall or horizontally within the tank allows the vaporized fluid to be fed downward from the nozzles. This prevents clogging of the nozzles located at the bottom of the pipe distributor.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, one or more gasification fluid generators may be located outside the sidewall of the tank. Technical requirements may require positioning one or more gasification fluid generators outside the tank. One or more gasification fluid generators may be located inside the tank.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may be a gravity-fed flotation cell. In a gravity-fed system, the slurry may be fed to the flotation tank at the froth layer. In the gravity-fed flotation cell, gas for generating flotation bubbles may be added to the main flotation tank via a gasification fluid generator. The gas may be added to the main flotation tank, rise from the main flotation tank to the froth layer, and adhere to fine and / or coarse particles of the slurry.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the at least one supply device can be configured to supply the second slurry onto the foam layer, into the foam layer, into the foam-slurry interface, or immediately below the foam layer. Different methods and systems can be used to supply the slurry to different parts of the foam layer.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the at least one feed device can be configured to feed slurry, wherein the flotation tank can include at least one of the following: an aggregator feed device, an aggregator edge feed device, an external aggregator feed device and / or an external launder feed device. The slurry can be fed into the flotation tank by at least one aggregator feed device, which aggregator feed device can feed the slurry into at least one aggregator. The slurry can be fed into the flotation tank by at least one aggregator edge feed device, which aggregator edge feed device can feed the slurry near the edge of at least one aggregator and inside the aggregator. The slurry can be fed into the flotation tank by at least one external aggregator feed device, which external aggregator feed device can feed the slurry between at least one aggregator and at least one launder but closer to the at least one aggregator. The slurry can be fed into the flotation tank by at least one external launder feed device, which external launder feed device can feed the slurry between at least one aggregator and at least one launder but closer to the at least one launder.

[0035] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may further comprise one or more froth collectors arranged to direct froth towards the lip. The collectors may be used to direct upwardly flowing slurry and / or gasified fluid within the flotation tank closer to a froth overflow lip of a froth collection launder, thereby enabling or facilitating froth formation very close to the froth overflow lip, which may increase the collection of desired ore particles.

[0036] According to a third aspect, a method for treating particles suspended in a slurry and separating the slurry into an underflow and an overflow using a flotation cell according to any one of the second aspects is disclosed. The method may include a tank configured to contain the slurry and a foam layer above the slurry; feeding the slurry into the tank using at least one supply device; distributing the gasified fluid to one or more pipe distributors including one or more nozzles using at least one manifold of at least one gasified fluid supply device; and injecting the gasified fluid into at least one of the following areas: a supply area, a collector area, and / or a central area of ​​the tank using the one or more nozzles. The manifold may enable multiple pipe distributors to inject the gasified fluid from at least the central area of ​​the treatment tank. Multiple gasified fluid generators may also be enabled to inject the gasified fluid into the pipe distributors. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The present disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1a An example of a flotation cell with a gasified fluid supply is schematically shown,

[0039] Figure 1b Schematic diagram showing the view from below Figure 1a Example of a tube distributor,

[0040] Figure 1c Schematically shows Figure 1a Examples of manifolds and connecting members,

[0041] Figure 2a Another example of a flotation cell with two gasification fluid supplies is schematically shown.

[0042] Figure 2b Schematic diagram showing the side view Figure 2a Example of cross section BB,

[0043] Figure 3a A further example of a flotation cell with a gasified fluid supply is schematically shown.

[0044] Figure 3b Schematic diagram showing the side view Figure 3a Example of section AA,

[0045] Figure 3c An example of a cross section of a flotation cell seen from above is schematically shown, and

[0046] Figure 4 An example method of using a flotation cell to process particles suspended in a slurry and separate the slurry into an underflow and an overflow is shown.

[0047] Unless specifically stated to the contrary, any of the figures in the above drawings may not be drawn to scale, such that any element in the figure may be drawn inaccurately relative to other elements in the figure in order to emphasize certain structural aspects of the embodiments of the figure.

[0048] Furthermore, corresponding elements in an embodiment of any of the preceding figures may not be to scale with each other in the figures in order to emphasize certain structural aspects of the embodiments of the figures.

[0049] Description of Reference Numerals

[0050] d f : Foam depth, thickness of foam layer

[0051] F: Supply area

[0052] C: Aggregator area

[0053] L: Flow channel area

[0054] W: Wall area

[0055] S:Section

[0056] Z: Central area

[0057] A1: First Area

[0058] A2: Second Area

[0059] A3: The third area

[0060] 10A: Concentrator supply device

[0061] 10B: Concentrator edge feeder

[0062] 10C: External collector supply device

[0063] 10D: External chute supply device

[0064] 1000: Flotation cell

[0065] 1001: First slurry

[0066] 1002: Foam layer

[0067] 1003: Overflow

[0068] 1100: Can

[0069] 1101: chute

[0070] 1102: chute lip

[0071] 1103: Bottom cone

[0072] 1104: Underflow outlet

[0073] 1105: Undercurrent

[0074] 1106: Gasification fluid inlet

[0075] 1107: Flotation liquid inlet

[0076] 1108: Sidewall

[0077] 1109: Foam Collector

[0078] 1202: Fluid Flow

[0079] 1214: Second slurry

[0080] 1221: Central Axis

[0081] 1228: Outsole surface

[0082] 1301: Gasified Fluid

[0083] 1400: Flotation liquid supply device

[0084] 1401: Flotation liquid

[0085] 1700: Gasification fluid supply device

[0086] 1701: Manifold

[0087] 1702: Gasification Fluid Generator

[0088] 1703: Tube Distributor

[0089] 1704: Nozzle

[0090] 1705: Connecting components

[0091] 1706: Manifold inlet

[0092] 1707: Manifold outlet

[0093] 1800: Bubble zone

[0094] 1801: Mixed Zone

[0095] 1802: Subsidence Zone DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The detailed description provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended as a description of this example and is not intended to represent the only forms in which this example may be constructed or utilized. This description sets forth the functionality of this example and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating this example. However, the same or equivalent functionality and sequence may be achieved with different examples.

[0097] According to an exemplary embodiment, the vaporized fluid is distributed at least from the concentrator area of ​​a circular or rectangular tank. The vaporized fluid can be distributed to the pipe distributor so that it can be injected into the pipe distributor near the concentrator area of ​​the tank. In this way, the vaporized fluid can be supplied to the tank in an optimized manner, and it can produce a thick (e.g., 500 mm) calm foam layer in the low-level tank. The vaporized fluid (e.g., aerated water) can be concentrated more in the concentrator area of ​​the tank, but can also be distributed in small quantities in the middle and launder areas of the tank.

[0098] The figures are not drawn to scale and many components of the flotation cell 1000 have been omitted for clarity. Figure 1a 、 Figure 2a and Figure 2b 、 Figure 3a and Figure 3b Flotation cell 1000 is shown in greater detail. Figure 1b 、 Figure 1c and Figure 3c An embodiment of a gasification fluid supply device is schematically shown.

[0099] according to Figure 1a The flotation cell 1000 of the exemplary embodiment is intended for processing mineral ore particles suspended in a second slurry 1214 and for separating the second slurry 1214 into an underflow 1105 and an overflow 1003, which may include a concentrate of a desired mineral.

[0100] As used herein, overflow refers to the portion of slurry that is collected in the launder of a flotation cell and thus leaves the cell. The overflow may comprise foam, foam plus slurry, or in some cases comprise only slurry or consist primarily of slurry. In some embodiments, the overflow may be a receiving stream comprising valuable material particles collected from the slurry. In other embodiments, the overflow may be a waste stream. This is the case when the flotation apparatus, device, and / or method is used for reverse flotation.

[0101] As used herein, underflow refers to the components or portions of the slurry that do not float to the surface during flotation. In some embodiments, the underflow may be a waste stream that exits the flotation cell via an outlet, typically located at the bottom of the cell. Ultimately, the underflow from the final flotation cell of a flotation line or flotation apparatus may exit the entire apparatus as a tailings stream or the final residue from the flotation machine. In some embodiments, the underflow may be a receiving stream containing valuable mineral particles. This is the case when the flotation cell or line is used for reverse flotation.

[0102] According to an exemplary embodiment, a flotation cell 1000 includes a tank 1100 for containing a first slurry 1001 and a volume of a foam layer 1002 above the first slurry 1001, wherein a supply device is configured to supply a second slurry 1214. The flotation cell may have a radially symmetrical cross-section. The flotation cell 1000 may also include a vaporized fluid supply device 1700, which includes a manifold 1701; one or more vaporized fluid generators 1702 connected to the manifold 1701; and one or more pipe distributors 1703 connected to the manifold 1701, wherein the one or more pipe distributors 1703 may include one or more nozzles 1704. The manifold 1701 may be configured to distribute the vaporized fluid from the one or more vaporized fluid generators 1702 to the one or more pipe distributors 1703, and the one or more nozzles 1704 may be configured to inject the vaporized fluid into at least a first area A1 of the tank 1100. The first area A1 may include a supply area F, a concentrator area C, and / or a central area Z.

[0103] According to an exemplary embodiment, the "first area" may refer to an area covering a horizontal area from the collector to the launder and / or at least a portion of the tank sidewall. The first area may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between the collector and the launder.

[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment, the "central region" may refer to an area covering a horizontal area from the central axis toward at least one launder and / or at least a portion of the tank sidewall. The central region may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between at least one concentrator or the central axis and the sidewall or at least one launder.

[0105] According to an exemplary embodiment, the "feed area" may refer to an area covering a horizontal area from at least one feeder or feed device toward at least one chute and / or at least a portion of the tank sidewall. The feed area may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between at least one feed device and at least one chute.

[0106] According to an exemplary embodiment, a "collector area" may refer to an area covering a horizontal area from at least one collector toward at least one flow channel and / or at least a portion of a tank sidewall. The collector area may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between at least one collector and at least one flow channel.

[0107] According to an exemplary embodiment, a "flow channel area" may refer to an area covering at least a portion of a horizontal area from at least one flow channel toward at least one collector and / or feeder. The flow channel area may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between at least one flow channel and at least one collector.

[0108] According to an exemplary embodiment, the "wall area" may refer to an area covering at least a portion of the wall area from the tank wall toward the central axis, at least one collector, at least one launder, and / or at least one feeder. The wall area may be a cross-sectional area extending a distance between the tank wall and the central axis.

[0109] According to an exemplary embodiment, the tank includes at least one horizontal first area A1, at least one horizontal second area A2, and at least one horizontal third area A3. The at least one first area A1 may include at least one of the following: a feed area F, a collector area C, and / or a center area Z of the tank 1100. The at least one second area A2 may be located between the first area A1 and the third area A3. The at least one third area A3 may include at least one of the following: a flow channel area L and / or a wall area W.

[0110] According to an exemplary embodiment, the tank can be divided into three circular horizontal areas: a first area A1 around the central axis, a feed area and / or a collector area, a third area A3 defined by the tank sidewall 1108, and an intermediate area A2 defined between the central area A1 and the peripheral area A3.

[0111] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first area, the second area, the third area, the central area, the feed area, and the aggregator area can be circular or rectangular areas in the flotation tank, depending on the shape of the tank. Respectively, in a circular tank, the aggregator area is circular, while in a rectangular tank, the aggregator area is rectangular.

[0112] exist Figure 1a In the example of a circular tank 1100, the tank is divided into three circular horizontal areas around a vertical center axis 1221: a first area A1 around the center axis 1221, the feed device 10A, and / or the collector 1109. A third area A3 may be defined by the tank sidewall 1108 or the flow channel 1101. A second area A2 may be located between the first area A1 and the third area A3 or the peripheral area of ​​the tank 1100.

[0113] According to an exemplary embodiment, the vaporized fluid supply device 1700 includes a manifold 1701 and one or more tube distributors 1703 connected to the manifold 1701. The one or more tube distributors 1703 may include one or more nozzles 1704, wherein the manifold 1701 may be arranged to distribute the vaporized fluid to the one or more tube distributors 1703. The one or more nozzles 1704 may be configured to inject the vaporized fluid into at least a first area A1 of the tank 1100. The first area A1 includes at least one of the following: a supply area F, a concentrator area C, and / or a central area Z of the tank.

[0114] According to an exemplary embodiment, gasification fluid supply device 1700 includes one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 connected to manifold 1701. Manifold 1701 may be configured to distribute gasification fluid from one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 to one or more tube distributors 1703.

[0115] Throughout this specification, "flotation" may refer to the separation of a mixture by adhering substances in the mixture at an interface. Flotation can be a concentration method used to separate ore from gangue. In flotation, the separation of a mixture can be based on differences in the hydrophobicity of the substances in the mixture. As used herein, "separation" may refer to the extraction or removal of substances from a mixture for use or disposal.

[0116] Furthermore, "foam flotation" may refer to flotation in which separation is performed using foam. In this context, "foam" may refer to a dispersion comprising a larger volume portion of vaporized fluid dispersed in a smaller volume portion of flotation liquid in the form of vaporized fluid. In general, the foam may or may not be stabilized by solid particles. In the foam, the average diameter of the vaporized fluid may typically be greater than or equal to 1 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the average distance between adjacent vaporized fluids in a foam that is not stabilized by solid particles may typically be less than or equal to a few tens of micrometers, for example, less than or equal to 50 μm or 30 μm. Naturally, in a foam stabilized by solid particles, the average distance between adjacent vaporized fluids may increase in proportion to the average size and number of the solid particles.

[0117] The term "flotation gas" may refer to any gaseous substance suitable for use in flotation. Although air is often used as flotation gas in practical applications, other types of gaseous substances may also be used, as known to the skilled person.

[0118] On the other hand, "flotation liquid" may refer to any liquid substance or mixture suitable for use in flotation. Although water or aqueous solutions are often used as flotation liquids in practical applications, other types of liquid substances may also be used as known to those skilled in the art.

[0119] Throughout this specification, a "cell" may refer to equipment adapted or configured to perform at least one specific process. Naturally, a "flotation cell" may refer to a cell adapted or configured to subject a material to flotation. A cell may generally include one or more sections, and each of the one or more sections may be classified as belonging to an apparatus.

[0120] Flotation cell means a cell for processing ore particles suspended in a slurry by flotation. Thus, valuable metal-containing ore particles can be recovered from the ore particles suspended in the slurry. A flotation line herein refers to a flotation device in which a plurality of flotation cells can be arranged to be fluidically connected to each other so that the underflow of each preceding flotation cell can be directed as infeed to the next or subsequent flotation cell until the last flotation cell of the flotation line, from which the underflow can be directed away from the flotation line as a tailings or waste stream. Slurry can be supplied to the first flotation cell of the flotation line via a supply inlet or a slurry supply device to start the flotation process. A flotation line can be part of a larger flotation plant or device comprising one or more flotation lines. Thus, as known to those skilled in the art, many different pre-treatment and post-treatment equipment or stages can be operatively connected to the components of the flotation device.

[0121] The flotation cells in a flotation line can be fluidically connected to each other. The fluid connection can be achieved through conduits (e.g., pipes or tubing) of different lengths, which can also include a pump or a regrinding unit, with the length of the conduit depending on the overall physical structure of the flotation device. Pumps or grinding / regrinding units can also be arranged between the flotation cells in the flotation line. Alternatively, the flotation cells can be arranged to have direct cell connections to each other. Direct cell connection herein refers to a device in which the outer walls of any two consecutive flotation cells are interconnected to allow the outlet of the first flotation cell to be connected to the inlet of a subsequent flotation cell without the need for any separate conduits. Direct contact can reduce the need for piping between two adjacent flotation cells. Therefore, during the construction of the flotation line, the need for components can be reduced, thereby speeding up the process. In addition, sanding can be reduced and the maintenance of the flotation line can be simplified. The fluid connection between the flotation cells can include various regulating mechanisms.

[0122] As used herein, "adjacent," "neighboring," or "adjacent" flotation cells means a flotation cell located immediately after or before any other flotation cell, whether downstream or upstream, or whether in a rougher flotation line, in a scavenger flotation line, or in the relationship between a flotation cell in a rougher flotation line and a flotation cell in a scavenger flotation line, into which the underflow from the flotation cell of the rougher flotation line can be directed.

[0123] A flotation cell, as used herein, refers to a tank or container in which the steps of a flotation process can be performed. A flotation cell can typically be cylindrical, defined by one or more outer walls. A flotation cell can typically have a circular cross-section. A flotation cell can also be polygonal (such as rectangular, square, triangular, hexagonal, or pentagonal), or have a cross-section that is otherwise radially symmetrical. A flotation cell can also have a cross-section that is not radially symmetrical. As is known to those skilled in the art, the number of flotation cells can vary depending on the specific flotation line and / or operation used to process a specific type and / or grade of ore.

[0124] The flotation cell can be a froth flotation cell, such as a mechanically agitated cell, for example, a TankCell, a column flotation cell, a Jameson cell, or a dual flotation cell. In a dual flotation cell, the cell can include at least two independent containers, a first mechanically agitated pressure vessel having a mixer and a gasified fluid input, and a second container having a tailings output and an overflow froth discharge, arranged to receive the agitated slurry from the first container. The flotation cell can also be a fluidized bed flotation cell (such as a HydroFloat™ flotation cell), in which air or other gasified fluid bubbles dispersed by a fluidization system penetrate through a blocked area and attach to the hydrophobic component, changing its density and giving it sufficient buoyancy to float and be recovered. In a fluidized bed flotation cell, axial mixing may not be required. The flotation cell can also be an overflow flotation cell operated with a constant slurry overflow. In an overflow flotation cell, the slurry is processed by introducing gasified fluid bubbles into the slurry and generating a continuous upward slurry flow in the vertical direction of the first flotation cell. At least a portion of the ore particles containing valuable metals can be attached to the bubbles and rise by buoyancy, at least a portion of the ore particles containing valuable metals can be attached to the bubbles and rise as the slurry continues to flow upward, and at least a portion of the ore particles containing valuable metals can rise as the slurry continues to flow upward. By directing the continuously upward-flowing slurry as a slurry overflow from at least one overflow flotation cell, the ore particles containing valuable metals can be recovered. Since the overflow cell can operate with almost no froth depth or froth layer, a froth zone is almost not formed on the slurry surface at the top of the flotation cell. The froth can be discontinuous throughout the cell. The result of this may be that more ore particles containing valuable minerals can be entrained into the concentrate stream (concentrate stream), and the overall recovery rate of valuable materials can be increased.

[0125] All flotation cells of a flotation line may be of a single type, i.e., the rougher flotation cells in the rougher section, the scavenger flotation cells in the scavenger section, and the scavenger cleaner flotation cells of the scavenger cleaner flotation line may all be of a single type of flotation cell, such that the flotation apparatus comprises only one type of flotation cell as listed above. Alternatively, a plurality of flotation cells may be of one type, while other flotation cells are of one or more types, such that the flotation line comprises two or more types of flotation cells as listed above.

[0126] Depending on its type, a flotation cell may include a mixer for agitating the slurry to keep it suspended. A mixer, as used herein, refers to any suitable component for agitating the slurry within the flotation cell. The mixer may be a mechanical agitator. The mechanical agitator may include a rotor-stator structure with a motor and a drive shaft, with the rotor-stator structure being arranged at the bottom of the flotation cell. The cell may have an auxiliary agitator arranged higher in the vertical direction of the cell to ensure a sufficiently strong and continuous upward flow of the slurry.

[0127] The "device" of a pool configured to perform a process may refer to a group of parts of the pool that is suitable for or configured to perform at least one specific sub-process of the process. In this way, a "pool comprising a device" may refer to the pool comprising the parts belonging to the device. On the other hand, a device for a pool may refer to a group of parts that is suitable for or configured to perform at least one specific sub-process. Typically, a device for a pool may form or not form a part of the pool. Any device may include any parts (such as mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and / or hydraulic parts) that are necessary and / or beneficial for performing its specific sub-process. In this article, a "part" may refer to an element or object that is assembled with one or more other elements or objects, or that can be assembled with one or more other elements or objects to form an apparatus, a device or a pool.

[0128] One or more gasification fluid inlets 1106 may connect one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 with one or more connection members 1705 .

[0129] Furthermore, "slurry" may refer to a dispersion comprising solid particles suspended in a continuous phase of a flotation liquid. Thus, a "slurry supply device" may refer to a device of or for a component of a flotation cell that is adapted or configured to supply slurry to a tank of the flotation cell. The slurry supply device may be adapted or configured to supply slurry to a froth layer above the slurry in the tank of the flotation cell.

[0130] As used herein, the slurry being "fed to the froth layer" may refer to the slurry being fed above and / or into, and / or immediately below, the surface of the froth layer, for example to a depth of at most twice the froth depth, or at most the froth depth, or at most 1 / 2 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 5 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 10 the froth depth, and / or into the froth-slurry interface. Additionally or alternatively, in an embodiment, the height of the launder lip defines the height of the upper surface of the froth layer, and the slurry being fed to the froth layer may refer to the slurry being fed into the tank to the level of the launder lip and / or below the level of the launder lip to a position of at most the froth depth, or at most 1 / 2 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 5 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 10 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 50 the froth depth. Throughout this specification, froth flotation in which the slurry is fed to the froth layer may be referred to as "froth-interaction flotation". Naturally, a "froth interaction flotation cell" may refer to a cell configured or adapted to separate materials by froth interaction flotation.

[0131] As used herein, a "tank" may refer to a container suitable for or configured to hold a fluid (eg, a liquid).

[0132] In this disclosure, "foam-slurry interface" may refer to the layer at the top of the slurry where the gas hold-up (gas hold-up) percentage is between 10-50 (10%-50%).

[0133] Figure 1a The flotation cell 1000 of the exemplary embodiment may be used for so-called "standard flotation," in which valuable minerals in the slurry are collected as an overflow and gangue is directed to an underflow. In other exemplary embodiments, the flotation cell may be used in any suitable manner, for example, in standard flotation and / or so-called "reverse flotation," in which valuable minerals in the slurry are directed to an underflow and gangue is collected as an overflow.

[0134] Figure 1a The flotation machine 1000 of the exemplary embodiment may be configured for so-called "rough flotation," wherein a slurry containing a large amount of coarse solid particles is used as the feed for flotation. In other exemplary embodiments, the flotation cell may or may not be configured for rough flotation.

[0135] exist Figure 1a In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , flotation cell 1000 includes tank 1100. In other embodiments, the flotation cell may or may not include a tank.

[0136] Figure 1aThe tank 1100 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 is configured to contain a first slurry 1001 and a foam layer 1002 above the first slurry 1001. In other embodiments, the tank may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0137] exist Figure 1a In an exemplary embodiment, the flotation cell 1000 includes a "gasified fluid supply device" 1700 for supplying a gasified fluid (e.g., aerated water) into the first slurry 1001. The gasified fluid may include air bubbles. The gasified fluid may be an aerated fluid. The fluid may be water and / or the air bubbles may be air bubbles.

[0138] In this disclosure, a "gasified fluid supply device" may refer to a component device of a flotation cell that is suitable or configured to supply gasified fluid to a tank of the flotation cell. Generally, the gasified fluid supply device may include any component that is suitable for supplying gasified fluid to a tank or any component that is required to supply gasified fluid to a tank.

[0139] The gasification fluid supply device may include a gasification fluid generator, such as one or more sprayers (eg jet and / or cavitation sprayers) and / or one or more static mixers.

[0140] According to an exemplary embodiment, the gasification fluid generator includes a jet-type shower, a cavitation-type shower, or a venturi-type shower.

[0141] Jet showers can be used to directly introduce microbubbles in the size range of 0.5 mm to 1.2 mm. In particular, if the microbubbles are introduced into or near the turbulent zone (mixing zone), they are more likely to collide with fine particles in the mixing zone, thereby improving the transport of these particles to the froth zone. Cavitation showers or Venturi showers can be used to introduce water and air or other gasified fluids into the flotation cell. In these embodiments, air / gas, or air / gas plus water, will be introduced into the showers to generate bubbles and injected into the flotation cell. The bubbles may adhere to the mineral ore particles and increase the overall recovery rate of the valuable minerals.

[0142] exist Figure 1a In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, air and water may be used as the gasification fluid 1301. In other embodiments, any suitable gas may be used, such as air, argon, nitrogen, hydrogen, or mixtures thereof.

[0143] Figure 1a The gasification fluid supply device 1700 of the embodiment is configured to supply the gasification fluid 1301 into the first slurry 1001 so that the foam layer 1002 remains above the first slurry 1001. In other embodiments, the gasification fluid supply device may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0144] Figure 1a The vaporized fluid supply device 1700 of the exemplary embodiment is configured to supply vaporized fluid 1301 to the first slurry 1001 below the foam layer 1002. Generally, a vaporized fluid supply device configured in this manner can guide vaporized fluid bubbles rising in the slurry onto the outer bottom surface of the lower portion of the collector and / or can increase the likelihood of recollection of particles containing valuable materials that have fallen into the foam layer. In other embodiments, the vaporized fluid supply device may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0145] Figure 1a The gasified fluid supply device 1700 of the exemplary embodiment is configured to supply gasified fluid bubbles 1301 into the first slurry 1001 below the foam layer by supplying gasified fluid bubbles into the first slurry 1001 via one or more nozzles 1704 of one or more tube distributors 1703. The one or more nozzles 1704 can be pointed downward. In other embodiments, where the gasified fluid supply device is configured to supply gasified fluid bubbles into the slurry below the foam collector, the gasified fluid supply device can be configured to supply the gasified fluid below the foam collector in any suitable manner (e.g., by supplying the gasified fluid into the slurry via a nozzle).

[0146] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more nozzles 1704 are pointed downward. Downward means towards the bottom of flotation cell 1100.

[0147] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more tube distributors 1703 extend from manifold 1701 radially or parallel to each other.

[0148] According to an exemplary embodiment, two or more tube distributors 1703 are arranged equidistant from each other such that the distance between any two adjacent tube distributors 1703 is the same. The one or more tube distributors 1703 may have a length or may extend from the manifold 1701 to the sidewall 1108 of the tank 1100. The one or more tube distributors 1703 may have different lengths.

[0149] According to an exemplary embodiment, two or more tube distributors 1703 are arranged at one or more levels. This means that one or more tube distributors 1703 can be located above each other in the vertical direction. Two or more tube distributors 1703 can be arranged at two or more levels.

[0150] According to an exemplary embodiment, the height difference between the levels of the two tube distributors is less than six times the diameter of tube distributor 1703 .

[0151] Figure 1bThe exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 shows the tank 1100 viewed below the manifold 1701 and tube distributor 1703. The tank can be divided into three circular regions around a vertical center axis 1221: a first horizontal region A1 or central zone Z surrounding the center axis 1221; a third region A3 or peripheral zone defined by the tank sidewall 1108 or flow channel 1101; and a second horizontal region A2 or intermediate zone located between the first and third regions A1 and A3. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first, second, and third regions A1, A2, and A3 each cover one-third of the cross-sectional area between the concentrator 1109 and the tank sidewall 1108. According to another exemplary embodiment, the first, second, and third regions A1, A2, and A3 each cover an equal-width segment (one-third) of the horizontal cross-sectional area between the concentrator 1109 and the tank sidewall 1108. Two or more nozzles 1704 can be arranged in each tube distributor 1703, such that the number of nozzles in the first region A1 exceeds the number of nozzles in the second region A2, and the number of nozzles in the third region A3. This means that more nozzles 1704 may be located in the first area A1 than in the second area A2 and / or the third area A3. One or more nozzles may be arranged to be directed towards the bottom of the tank 1100.

[0152] Furthermore, a "central axis" may refer to an imaginary line. The central axis may or may not extend through one or more central points, such as the center of mass and / or centroid of the tank. Additionally or alternatively, the central axis may or may not extend along the tank's axis of symmetry and / or plane of symmetry. The central axis may be a vertical line.

[0153] According to an exemplary embodiment, the one or more nozzles 1704 are arranged to distribute the gasification fluid such that a first flow rate FR1 of the gasification fluid in the first area A1 > a second flow rate FR2 of the gasification fluid in the second area A2 > a third flow rate FR3 of the gasification fluid in the third area A3.

[0154] According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparent gas velocity JG within the tank 1100 is the volume flow rate of gas / area of ​​foam, wherein the first apparent gas velocity JG1 in the first area A1 is 2 to 7 [cm / s], the second apparent gas velocity JG2 in the second area A2 is 1 to 5 [cm / s], and the third apparent gas velocity JG3 in the third area A3 is 0 to 3 [cm / s].

[0155] According to an exemplary embodiment, the superficial gas velocity JG1 within the first area A1 is different from the second superficial gas velocity JG2 within the second area A2 , and the second superficial gas velocity within the second area is different from the third superficial gas velocity JG3 within the third area A3 .

[0156] According to an exemplary embodiment, gasification fluid supply device 1700 is disposed below foam layer 1002 .

[0157] from Figure 1a As can be seen in the example of FIG, the tank 1100 can be divided into a foaming zone 1800, a mixing zone 1801, and a settling zone 1802. The gasification fluid supply device 1700 can be arranged below the foam layer 1002 and above the settling zone 1802. The gasification fluid supply device 1700 can be located in the mixing zone 1801.

[0158] The foam zone 1800 can be approximately 1% to 25% of the height of the settling zone 1802. In the foam zone 1800, the desired minerals can adhere to the bubbles and be transported to the launder lip. Coarse particles can adhere to the foam or gas in the foam zone 1800. The foam zone can include foam and slurry. The height of the tank 1000 can be measured from the bottom of the cell-to-cell lip.

[0159] The mixing zone, as used herein, refers to a vertical section or segment of the flotation tank where active mixing of particles suspended in the slurry with bubbles of gasified fluid can occur. The mixing zone can include bubbles, slurry, and fluid. The mixing zone can be below the froth zone. In the mixing zone 1801, fine particles can still be recovered, but coarse particles cannot. Gangue minerals may fall toward the settling zone.

[0160] The settling zone is a vertical section or segment of a flotation tank where particles that are not associated with the gasified fluid bubbles, or that cannot rise toward the froth zone, or that cannot remain in the froth zone at the top of the flotation tank, can descend and settle toward the tank bottom to be removed as underflow in the form of tailings. The settling zone is located below the mixing zone. The settling zone may contain slurry. In the settling zone 1802, gangue minerals may settle and be transported to tailings or underflow 1105.

[0161] According to an exemplary embodiment, manifold 1701 is arranged parallel to sidewall 1108 at the center of tank 1100 .

[0162] According to an exemplary embodiment, the manifold 1701 is vertically arranged inside or outside the tank 1100 , or horizontally arranged inside or outside the tank 1100 .

[0163] According to an exemplary embodiment, the tube distributor 1703 is arranged in the tank 1100 perpendicularly to the side wall 1108 or horizontally.

[0164] Figure 1cThe example shows that the manifold 1701 includes one or more manifold inlets 1706 and one or more manifold outlets 1707, the manifold inlets are arranged to connect the gasification fluid generator 1702 to the manifold 1701 through the connecting member 1705, and the manifold outlets are arranged to connect the tube distributor 1703 to the manifold 1701.

[0165] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more manifold outlets 1707 are arranged equally spaced circumferentially around the manifold or side by side along the manifold 1701, such that the distance between any two adjacent manifold outlets 1707 is the same. The manifold inlets may also be arranged above each other to form one or more levels.

[0166] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more manifold inlets 1706 are arranged vertically above each other.

[0167] According to an exemplary embodiment, gasification fluid supply apparatus 1700 includes one or more connection members 1705 located between one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 and manifold 1701, wherein one or more connection members 1705 are arranged to connect one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 to manifold 1701. Connection members 1705 can be used to attach manifold to sidewall 1108 of tank 1100.

[0168] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more vaporization fluid generators 1702 are located external to tank 1100 .

[0169] According to an exemplary embodiment, flotation cell 1000 is a gravity-fed flotation cell.

[0170] A gravity fed flotation cell is a system in which the slurry is fed into the flotation tank at the froth layer. This means that the slurry can be fed on top of the froth, into the froth, into the froth-slurry interface, or just below the froth.

[0171] According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one feed device can be configured to feed the first slurry 1001, wherein the flotation cell 1000 can include at least one of the following: an aggregator feed device 10A, an aggregator edge feed device 10B, an external aggregator feed device 10C, and / or an external launder feed device 10D. The first slurry 1001 can be fed into the flotation cell 1100 via the at least one aggregator feed device 10A, which can feed the first slurry 1001 into the at least one aggregator 1109. The first slurry 1001 can be fed into the flotation tank 1008 via the at least one aggregator edge feed device 10B, which can feed the first slurry 1001 near the edge of the at least one aggregator 1109. The slurry can be fed into the flotation tank 1008 via the at least one external aggregator feed device 10C, which can feed the first slurry 1001 between the at least one aggregator 1109 and the at least one launder 1101, but closer to the at least one aggregator 1109. The slurry may be fed into the flotation tank 1008 by at least one external launder feed 1101 which may feed the first slurry 1001 between the at least one collector 1109 and the at least one launder 1101 , but closer to the at least one launder 1101 .

[0172] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one slurry supply device 10A- 10D is configured to supply the second slurry 1214 onto the foam layer 1002 , into the foam layer 1002 , into a foam-slurry interface, and / or immediately below the surface of the foam layer 1002 .

[0173] At least one slurry supply device 10A-10D can be configured to supply the second slurry 1214 to the froth layer 1002. In this way, the flotation cell 1000 is implemented as a froth interaction flotation cell. Generally, supplying slurry to the froth layer can increase the recovery rate of coarse mineral particles in the slurry. In other embodiments, the slurry supply device can be adapted or configured to supply coarse slurry to the froth layer.

[0174] At least one slurry supply device 10A-10D can be used to supply slurry onto the foam layer 1002 arranged above the first slurry 1001 in the tank 1100. On the other hand, the slurry supply devices 10A-10D can be used to supply the second slurry 1214 to immediately below the surface of the foam layer 1002 arranged above the first slurry 1001 in the tank 1100.

[0175] According to an exemplary embodiment, flotation cell 1000 further includes one or more froth collectors 1109 arranged to direct froth towards launder 1101 .

[0176] A froth collector herein refers to a froth blocker, a froth baffle, or a collecting plate, or a collecting plate arrangement, or any other such structure or side structure, such as an inclined or vertical side wall with a collecting effect (i.e., a collecting side wall), which may also be a collecting side wall inside a flotation tank (i.e., an internal peripheral collector). The froth can be collected and directed toward the froth overflow lip to reduce the froth transport distance (thereby reducing the risk of fallback) while maintaining or even reducing the length of the overflow lip (by reducing the tank diameter). In other words, the handling and guidance of the froth layer in a froth flotation cell or tank can be made more efficient and straightforward.

[0177] Furthermore, the froth surface area on the slurry surface within the flotation tank can be reduced in a robust and simple mechanical manner. Simultaneously, the total overflow lip length in the froth flotation cell can be reduced. By reducing the froth surface area of ​​the flotation cell with the aid of a froth collector rather than adding an additional froth collection chute, the froth flotation cell can be constructed more simply overall, for example, because collected froth and / or overflow does not need to be directed through an additional collector.

[0178] By arranging a froth collector in a flotation tank, the open froth surface between the froth overflow lips can be controlled. The collector can be used to direct or channel upwardly flowing slurry within the flotation tank closer to the froth overflow lips of the froth collection chute, thereby enabling or facilitating froth formation very close to the froth overflow lips, which can increase particle collection. Furthermore, the open froth surface can be reduced relative to the lip length, thereby improving recovery efficiency in the froth flotation cell.

[0179] Figure 1a The tank 1100 of the exemplary embodiment includes an underflow outlet 1104 for discharging an underflow 1105 from the first slurry 1001 .

[0180] Throughout this specification, "coarse slurry" may refer to a slurry containing solid particles of larger diameter. As known to those skilled in the art, the definition of coarse slurry may be application-specific and / or ore-specific. For example, in some embodiments, coarse slurry may refer to a slurry having a particle size distribution with a sieve pass percentage of less than 80% at a sieve size of 4000 μm, or a sieve size of 425 μm, or a sieve size of 355 μm, or a sieve size of 250 μm, or a sieve size of 180 μm, or a sieve size of 150 μm, or a sieve size of 125 μm, or a sieve size of 105 μm.

[0181] On the other hand, an "outlet" may refer to a discharge member for a fluid, such as an opening or a through-hole. Generally, the outlet may be arranged in the tank in any suitable manner, for example, at the side wall or bottom of the tank, or at the end of a pipe or other suitable conduit for passing the fluid through the side wall or bottom of the tank, or at the end of a pipe or other suitable conduit for passing the fluid over the side wall of the tank.

[0182] Thus, a "coarse slurry outlet" may refer to an outlet configured or adapted to discharge coarse slurry from a tank. Additionally, the coarse slurry outlet may be configured or adapted to discharge any other suitable type of slurry from a tank. Typically, the coarse slurry outlet is disposed in a lower section of the tank for collecting flotation product from the tank.

[0183] exist Figure 1a In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the tank 1100 includes a bottom cone 1103 that tapers downward. Generally, a tank including a bottom cone can reduce the topdressing of sand in the tank. In other embodiments, the tank may include such a bottom cone or may not include such a bottom cone.

[0184] Throughout the specification, a "bottom cone" of a tank may refer to a generally funnel-shaped and downwardly tapering bottom structure of the tank, which is adapted or configured to guide settled solid particles towards an outlet or an inlet.

[0185] exist Figure 1a In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the underflow outlet 1104 is arranged at the bottom of the bottom cone 1103. Generally, a tank including a bottom cone and a coarse slurry outlet located at the bottom of the bottom cone can help drain extremely coarse slurry out of the tank and / or reduce the amount of topdressing in the tank. In other embodiments, the coarse slurry outlet can be arranged in any suitable manner, such as at the bottom of the bottom cone. For example, in some embodiments, the tank can include: a flat bottom; a sidewall extending from the bottom; and a coarse slurry outlet located at the sidewall.

[0186] Figure 1a The canister 1100 of the exemplary embodiment includes one or more vaporization fluid inlets 1106. In other embodiments, the canister may include a vaporization fluid inlet or not include such a vaporization fluid inlet.

[0187] Throughout this specification, an "inlet" may refer to an entry member for a fluid, such as an opening or a through-hole. Generally, the inlet may be arranged in the tank in any suitable manner, such as at the side wall or bottom of the tank, or at the end of a pipe or other suitable conduit for passing a fluid or gas through the side wall or bottom of the tank, or at the end of a pipe or other suitable conduit for passing a fluid over the side wall of the tank.

[0188] In this specification, a "gasification fluid inlet" may refer to an inlet configured or adapted to supply gasification fluid into a manifold.

[0189] Figure 1a The one or more gasification fluid inlets 1106 of the exemplary embodiment are arranged in any suitable manner, such as having the one or more gasification fluid inlets arranged below the foam layer 1002 .

[0190] Figure 1a The tank 1100 of the exemplary embodiment includes a flotation liquid inlet 1107. In other embodiments, the tank may or may not include such a flotation liquid inlet.

[0191] As used herein, a "flotation liquid inlet" may refer to an inlet configured or adapted to allow flotation liquid to enter the tank.

[0192] Figure 1a The tank 1100 of the exemplary embodiment includes a launder 1101 including a launder lip 1102. The launder 1101 is configured to collect overflow 1003 from the froth layer 1002. Generally, a tank including a launder can facilitate collection of flotation product from the tank. In other embodiments, the tank can include any suitable member (e.g., a launder having a launder lip) for collecting flotation product from an upper section of the tank.

[0193] Throughout this specification, a "chute" may refer to a member disposed in an upper section of a tank for collecting flotation product from the tank. Typically, a chute includes a chute lip. As used herein, the "chute lip" may refer to the portion of the chute over which the flotation product is disposed to flow into the chute for collection.

[0194] In this context, "foam depth" may refer to the thickness of the foam layer in the tank. The foam depth may be measured as the vertical distance between the lip of the launder and the surface of the slurry in the tank when the tank is in use.

[0195] exist Figure 1a In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the flotation cell 1000 includes a flotation liquid supply 1400 for supplying a flotation liquid 1401 to the first slurry 1001. In other embodiments, the flotation cell may or may not include such a flotation liquid supply.

[0196] In this disclosure, "flotation liquid supply" may refer to an arrangement of parts of a flotation cell configured or adapted to supply flotation liquid to a tank of the flotation cell from a source external to the flotation cell, such as a process tank or body of water.

[0197] Figure 1aThe flotation liquid supply device 1400 of the embodiment is configured to supply the flotation liquid 1401 into the first slurry 1001 below the froth layer 1002 .

[0198] like Figure 1a As shown by the dashed arrows in FIG. 1 , the gasification fluid supply device 1700 is configured to transport the slurry in the first slurry 1001 toward the outer bottom surface 1228 of the foam collector 1109 parallel to the central axis 1221 .

[0199] like Figure 1a As further shown using dashed arrows, the outer bottom surface 1228 of the froth collector 1109 is configured to divert vaporized fluid and flotation liquid rising parallel to the central axis 1221 to form a fluid flow 1202 around the outer bottom surface 1228 and then direct the fluid flow 1202 toward the flow channel lip 1102.

[0200] Generally, configuring the outer bottom surface of the froth collector in this manner can help maintain a constant flow of slurry and froth toward the lip of the launder, which in turn can increase the recovery rate of particles containing valuable materials. In other embodiments, the outer bottom surface of the froth collector can be configured or not configured to divert vaporized fluid and flotation liquid rising parallel to the central axis to form a fluid flow around the outer bottom surface and direct the fluid flow toward the lip of the launder.

[0201] Figure 2a The example shows a flotation cell 1000 having a Figure 1a The flotation cell 1000 has similar functions. Figure 2b The example shows a side view of Figure 2a Cross-section BB. Figure 2a and Figure 2b The flotation cell 1000 may have a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular, square, triangular, hexagonal, or pentagonal cross-section, or have a cross-section that is otherwise radially symmetrical. The flotation cell 1000 may also have a radially asymmetrical cross-section. The tank 1100 may have two side walls 1108 and two end walls. The side walls 1108 may be longer than the end walls, they may have similar lengths, or they may be shorter than the end walls. The flotation cell 1000 may also include two or more gasification fluid supply devices 1700. The two or more gasification fluid supply devices 1700 may be located at the side walls 1108 and / or end walls of the tank 1100. Thus, they may be located at different lengths. Figure 1aThe two or more gasification fluid supply devices may include: a manifold 1701; one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 connected to the manifold 1701; and one or more tube distributors 1703 connected to the manifold 1701, wherein the one or more tube distributors 1703 may include one or more nozzles 1704. The manifold 1701 may be configured to distribute the gasification fluid from the one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 to the one or more tube distributors 1703, and the one or more nozzles 1704 may be configured to inject the gasification fluid into at least the first area A1 of the tank 1100. The first area A1 may include a supply area F, a wall area, and / or a collector area C. The manifold 1701 may be located outside the tank 1100. This may make it easier to manufacture the gasification fluid supply device 1700 to have a larger capacity.

[0202] One or more tube distributors 1703 may extend from the manifold 1701. The one or more tube distributors 1703 within the tank 1100 may extend parallel to the end wall 1110. The one or more tube distributors 1703 may extend from the side wall 1108 or the end wall toward the at least one flow channel 1101.

[0203] At least one flow channel 1101 may be located in the middle of the tank 1100. The at least one flow channel 1101 may have a rectangular or circular shape. The at least one flow channel 1101 may be configured to be located in the middle of the tank 1100, parallel to the sidewall 1108 or end wall of the tank 1100. The length of the at least one flow channel may be the length of the sidewall or end wall. The flow channel may be configured to be located in the middle of a vertical plane passing through the central axis 1221 of the tank 1100 and parallel to the sidewall or end wall.

[0204] according to Figure 2bIn an example, at least one feed device 10A-10D may be configured to feed the first slurry 1001, wherein the flotation cell 1000 may include at least one of the following: an aggregator feed device 10A, an aggregator edge feed device 10B, an external aggregator feed device 10C, and / or an external launder feed device 10D. The first slurry 1001 may be fed into the flotation tank 1100 via the at least one aggregator feed device 10A, which may feed the first slurry 1001 into at least one aggregator 1109. The first slurry 1001 may be fed into the flotation tank 1008 via the at least one aggregator edge feed device 10B, which may feed the first slurry 1001 near the edge of the at least one aggregator 1109. The slurry may be fed into the flotation tank 1008 by at least one external aggregator feed 10C, which may feed the first slurry 1001 between the at least one aggregator 1109 and the at least one launder 1101, but closer to the at least one aggregator 1109. The slurry may be fed into the flotation tank 1008 by at least one external launder feed 1101, which may feed the first slurry 1001 between the at least one aggregator 1109 and the at least one launder 1101, but closer to the at least one launder 1101.

[0205] Figure 3a The example shows a flotation cell 1000 having a Figure 1a or Figure 2a-2b The flotation cell 1000 may have a similar function to the flotation cell 1000 in FIG. The flotation cell may have a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, hexagon or pentagon, or have a cross-section that is radially symmetrical in other ways. The flotation cell may also have a radially asymmetric cross-section. The flotation cell 1000 may also include a gasification fluid supply device 1700. The gasification fluid supply device 1700 may be located at the side wall 1108 of the tank 1100. The gasification fluid supply device may include: a manifold 1701; one or more gasification fluid generators connected to the manifold 1701; and one or more tube distributors 1703 connected to the manifold 1701, wherein the one or more tube distributors 1703 may include one or more nozzles. The manifold 1701 may be configured to distribute the gasification fluid from the one or more gasification fluid generators 1702 to the one or more tube distributors 1703, and the one or more nozzles may be configured to inject the gasification fluid into at least the first area A1 of the tank 1100. The first area A1 may include a supply area F, a wall area, and / or a collector area C. The manifold 1701 may be located outside the tank 1100. The manifold 1701 may be positioned around the tank 1100. This may make it easier to manufacture the vaporization fluid supply device 1700 to have a larger capacity.

[0206] One or more tube distributors 1703 may extend from the manifold 1701. The one or more tube distributors 1703 within the tank 1100 may extend radially from the manifold 1701 toward the central axis 1221 of the tank 1100. The one or more tube distributors 1703 may extend from the sidewall 1108 toward at least one flow channel.

[0207] According to an exemplary embodiment, the tank includes at least one horizontal first area A1, at least one horizontal second area A2, and at least one horizontal third area A3. The at least one first area A1 may include at least one of the following: a feed area F, a collector area C, and / or a wall area W of the tank 1100. The at least one second area A2 may be located between the first area A1 and the third area A3. The at least one third area A3 may include at least one of the following: a flow channel area L and / or a center area Z.

[0208] exist Figure 3b In an example, when the tank has a polygonal cross-section (e.g., a rectangle or a square), the tank includes one or two horizontal first areas A1, one or two horizontal second areas A2, and one or two horizontal third areas A3. The flow trough 1101 may be located between the third areas A3, or the flow trough 1101 may be located near one or two third areas A3. At least one first area A1 may include at least one of the following: a supply area F, a collector area C, and / or a wall area W of the tank 1100. At least one second area A2 may be located between the first area A1 and the third area A3. At least one third area A3 may include at least one of the following: a flow trough area L and / or a center area Z.

[0209] exist Figure 3b In the example of FIG. 1 , when the tank has a circular cross-section, the tank includes a horizontal first area A1, a horizontal second area A2, and a horizontal third area A3 surrounding the flow channel 1101. The flow channel 1101 may have a circular or polygonal cross-section.

[0210] At least one flow channel 1101 can be located in the middle of the tank 1100. The at least one flow channel 1101 can have a circular or polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, hexagon, or pentagon, or have a cross-section that is otherwise radially symmetrical. The at least one flow channel 1101 can be configured to be located in the middle of the tank 1100 or at the sidewall 1108 inside or outside the tank 1100.

[0211] At least one flow channel 1101 may be located in the middle of the tank 1100. The at least one flow channel 1101 may have a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, hexagon, or pentagon, or have a cross-section that is otherwise radially symmetrical. The at least one flow channel 1101 may be configured to be located in the middle of the tank 1100 or at the sidewall 1108 inside or outside the tank 1100.

[0212] Figure 3b The example shows a side view of Figure 3a Section AA. Figure 3a and Figure 3b The flotation cell 1000 may have a circular cross-section or a polygonal cross-section, such as a rectangular, square, triangular, hexagonal, or pentagonal cross-section, or a cross-section that is otherwise radially symmetrical. The flotation cell may also have a radially asymmetrical cross-section.

[0213] Figure 3c The example of shows a cross section of a circular flotation cell 1000 seen from above. Figure 3c In the example of FIG100 , the tank includes at least one horizontal first area A1, at least one horizontal second area A2, and at least one horizontal third area A3. The at least one first area A1 may include at least one of the following: a feed area F, a collector area C, and / or a wall area W of the tank 1100. The at least one second area A2 may be located between the first area A1 and the third area A3. The at least one third area A3 may include at least one of the following: a flow channel area L and / or a center area Z.

[0214] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first area A1, the second area A2 and the third area A3 each cover 1 / 3 of the cross-sectional area between the concentrator 1109 and the flow channel 1101. According to another exemplary embodiment, the first area A1, the second area A2 and the third area A3 each cover an equal width segment (1 / 3) of the horizontal cross-sectional area between the concentrator 1109 and the flow channel 1101. Two or more nozzles 1704 can be arranged in each pipe distributor 1703, so that the number of nozzles in the first area A1>the number of nozzles in the second area A2>the number of nozzles in the third area A3. This means that more nozzles 1704 can be located in the first area A1 compared to the second area A2 and / or the third area A3. One or more nozzles can be arranged to point to the bottom of the tank 1100.

[0215] According to an exemplary embodiment, the one or more nozzles 1704 are arranged to distribute the gasification fluid such that a first flow rate FR1 of the gasification fluid in the first area A1 > a second flow rate FR2 of the gasification fluid in the second area A2 > a third flow rate FR3 of the gasification fluid in the third area A3.

[0216] According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparent gas velocity JG within the tank 1100 is the volume flow rate of gas / area of ​​foam, wherein the first apparent gas velocity JG1 in the first area A1 is 2 to 7 [cm / s], the second apparent gas velocity JG2 in the second area A2 is 1 to 5 [cm / s], and the third apparent gas velocity JG3 in the third area A3 is 0 to 3 [cm / s].

[0217] According to an exemplary embodiment, the superficial gas velocity JG1 in the first area A1 is different from the second superficial gas velocity JG2 in the second area A2 , and the second superficial gas velocity in the second area is different from the third superficial gas velocity JG3 in the third area A3 .

[0218] According to an exemplary embodiment, the tube distributor may also extend from one or more side walls 1108 of the tank 1100 to the central region Z of the tank 1100. This may allow the tube distributor 1703 to supply vaporized fluid primarily from the wall region W of the tank, but may also supply some amount of vaporized fluid from the middle region or second region A2 of the tank 1100, and a smaller amount from the central region or third region A3 of the tank.

[0219] According to an exemplary embodiment, one or more tube distributors 1703 may be arranged to one or more sections S, such as Figure 3c The number of tube distributors 1703 in each section S may vary or may be the same.

[0220] According to an exemplary embodiment, the length of the tube distributor 1703 in one or more sections S may be at least one of the following: the length of the first area A1, the length of the second area A2, and / or the length of the third area A3. For example, the length of the tube distributor 1703 in three sections S covers the first area A1, while the length of the tube distributor 1703 in the remaining sections S covers the three areas A1 to A3. The length of the one or more tube distributors 1703 in one or more sections S may be any length.

[0221] The above discussion primarily focuses on the structural aspects of the flotation machine. Below, greater emphasis will be placed on aspects related to the flotation method. The embodiments, definitions, details, and advantages described above with respect to the flotation cell apply, mutatis mutandis, to the method discussed below, and vice versa.

[0222] It is particularly to be understood that any flotation method according to the present description can be used to operate a flotation cell according to the present description. Accordingly, any flotation cell according to the present description can be operated according to a method according to the present description.

[0223] Figure 4 Shows the use of Figure 1a 、 Figure 2a-2b or Figure 3aThe flotation cell 1000 of the embodiment of the present invention is an example of a method of processing particles suspended in a second slurry 1214 and separating the second slurry 1214 into an underflow 1005 and an overflow 1003.

[0224] In operation 100 , the method may include providing a tank 1100 for containing a first slurry 1001 and a foam layer 1002 above the first slurry 1001 .

[0225] In operation 110 , the method may include supplying slurry to a tank 1100 via at least one supply device 10A- 10D.

[0226] In operation 120 , the method may include distributing the gasification fluid to one or more tube distributors 1703 including one or more nozzles using at least one manifold 1701 of at least one gasification fluid supply 1700 .

[0227] In operation 130 , the method may include injecting the gasification fluid into at least one of the feed region F, the concentrator region C, and / or the central region Z of the tank 1100 using one or more nozzles 1704 .

[0228] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that, with the advancement of technology, the basic idea of ​​the present invention can be implemented in various ways. Therefore, the present invention and its embodiments are not limited to the above examples, but they can be varied within the scope of the claims.

[0229] It should be understood that any benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment, or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to embodiments that solve any or all of the problems described, or embodiments that have any or all of the benefits and advantages described.

[0230] The term "comprising" is used in this specification to indicate including the features or actions that follow, but does not preclude the presence of one or more additional features or actions. It should also be understood that reference to "an" item refers to one or more of those items.

Claims

1. A gasification fluid supply device (1700), characterized in that: include: Manifold (1701); as well as One or more tube distributors (1703) connected to the manifold (1701), wherein the one or more tube distributors (1703) include one or more nozzles (1704), wherein, The manifold (1701) is configured to distribute vaporized fluid from one or more vaporized fluid generators (1702) to the one or more tube distributors (1703); and The one or more nozzles (1704) are configured to inject the gasified fluid into at least one of: a supply area (F), a collector area (C) and / or a central area (Z) of the tank (1100), and the aerated fluid and bubbles in the gasified fluid are distributed within the tank (1100) at different flow rates along the length of the one or more tube distributors (1703).

2. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gasification fluid supply device (1700) further comprises one or more gasification fluid generators (1702) connected to the manifold (1701).

3. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more nozzles (1704) are directed downward.

4. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to claim 2, characterized in that: The one or more nozzles (1704) are directed downward.

5. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The one or more tube distributors (1703) extend from the manifold (1701) radially or parallel to each other.

6. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: Two or more tube distributors (1703) are arranged equidistant from each other, so that the distance between any two adjacent tube distributors (1703) is the same.

7. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: Two or more tube distributors (1703) are arranged on one or more levels.

8. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The manifold (1701) comprises: one or more manifold inlets (1706) arranged to connect the gasification fluid generator (1702) to the manifold (1701); and One or more manifold outlets (1707) arranged to connect the tube distributor (1703) to the manifold (1701).

9. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to claim 8, characterized in that: The one or more manifold outlets (1707) are equally spaced circumferentially around the manifold (1701) or side by side along the manifold (1701), such that the distance between any two adjacent manifold outlets (1707) is the same.

10. The gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The gasification fluid supply device (1700) includes one or more connecting members (1705) located between the one or more gasification fluid generators (1702) and the manifold (1701), wherein the one or more connecting members (1705) are arranged to connect the one or more gasification fluid generators (1702) to the manifold (1701).

11. A flotation cell (1000) for processing particles suspended in a second slurry (1214) and separating the second slurry (1214) into an underflow (1105) and an overflow (1003), characterized in that: The flotation cell (1000) comprises: A tank (1100) for containing a first slurry (1001) and a foam layer (1002) above the first slurry (1001); at least one supply device (10A-10D) configured to supply the second slurry (1214); and At least one gasification fluid supply device (1700) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11, characterized in that The one or more nozzles (1704) are configured to inject the gasified fluid into at least one first area (A1) at the level of the tank (1100), wherein the at least one first area (A1) includes at least one of: a supply area (F), a concentrator area (C) and / or a central area (Z) of the tank (1100).

13. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11, characterized in that The tank (1100) includes at least one first horizontal area (A1), at least one second horizontal area (A2), and at least one third horizontal area (A3), wherein: The at least one first area (A1) comprises at least one of: the feed area (F), the concentrator area (C) and / or the central area (Z) of the tank (1100); The at least one second area (A2) is located between the first area (A1) and the third area (A3); and The at least one third area (A3) comprises at least one of: a flow channel area (L), a central area (Z) and / or a wall area (W).

14. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 13, characterized in that Two or more nozzles (1704) are arranged in each tube distributor (1703) such that the number of nozzles in the first area (A1) > the number of nozzles in the second area (A2) > the number of nozzles in the third area (A3).

15. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that The one or more nozzles (1704) are arranged to distribute the gasification fluid so that a first flow rate (FR1) of the gasification fluid in the first area (A1) > a second flow rate (FR2) of the gasification fluid in the second area (A2) > a third flow rate (FR3) of the gasification fluid in the third area (A3).

16. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that The superficial gas velocity (JG) in the tank is the volume flow rate of gas / the area of ​​the foam, where The first superficial gas velocity (JG1) in the first region (A1) is 2 to 7 cm / s; a second superficial gas velocity (JG2) in the second region (A2) of 1 to 5 cm / s; and The third superficial gas velocity (JG3) in the third region (A3) is 0 to 3 cm / s.

17. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The gasification fluid supply device (1700) is arranged below the foam layer (1002).

18. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The manifold (1701) is arranged vertically inside or outside the tank (1100), or horizontally inside or outside the tank (1100).

19. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The tube distributor (1703) is arranged horizontally in the tank (1100).

20. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The one or more vaporization fluid generators (1702) are located outside the tank (1100).

21. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The flotation cell (1000) is a gravity-fed flotation cell.

22. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The at least one supply device (10A-10D) is configured to supply the second slurry (1214) onto the foam layer (1002), into the foam layer (1002), into a foam-slurry interface, and / or immediately below the foam layer (1002).

23. The flotation cell (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The flotation cell (1000) further comprises one or more froth collectors (1109) arranged to direct froth towards at least one launder (1101).

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