Slurry supply device and flotation tank

Abstract

The utility model discloses a slurry supply device and a flotation tank. The slurry supply apparatus (1200) comprises: one or more slurry supply devices (1202) configured to supply slurry (1214) to the foam layer (1002); a supply chamber (1201) configured to receive supplied slurry (1214) from one or more slurry supply devices (1202); and an overflow ramp (1205) between the supply chamber (1201) and the foam layer (1002), the overflow ramp configured to direct slurry (1214) from the supply chamber (1201) to the foam layer (1002).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to mineral processing. In particular, the present disclosure relates to slurry distribution in tanks used in mineral processing plants. Background Art

[0002] There are several ways to feed slurry to tanks used in mineral processing plants. However, slurry feeding arrangements can be further developed to achieve better mineral separation. Utility Model Content

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

[0004] Example embodiments of the present disclosure provide a flotation cell for processing particles suspended in a slurry and for separating the slurry into an underflow and an overflow. The system may relate to a gravity feeding flotation (FID) system in which the slurry is fed into the flotation cell at a foam layer. That is, it is fed to the top of the foam layer, into the foam layer, into the slurry-foam interface and / or fed immediately below the foam layer. The fed slurry may first enter a feed chamber, such as a dead bed chamber, before it enters the main flotation chamber (e.g., a tank). The feed chamber may be used to reduce the kinetic energy of the fed slurry, such as velocity, and minimize wear on fixed components. The feed chamber may operate at ambient pressure or atmospheric pressure and may receive the fed slurry from one or more slurry feed devices at ambient pressure. The feed chamber may serve as an intermediate chamber that may suppress the velocity of the fed slurry and may allow a gradual, evenly distributed overflow from the feed chamber into the tank. Before the slurry enters the foam layer of the tank, air bubbles can be added to the slurry supply. When air bubbles are added to the slurry supply, the weight of the slurry supply may not increase, but only the volume of the slurry supply may increase, and the density may decrease. This can aid mixing and create a pre-aerated state for the slurry supply before it enters the foam layer. This can minimize disruptions in the foam phase and help retain particles within the foam.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a slurry supply device is disclosed, wherein the slurry supply device is configured to supply slurry to a froth layer, the slurry supply device comprising: one or more slurry supply devices configured to supply slurry; a supply chamber configured to receive the supplied slurry from the one or more slurry supply devices; and an overflow ramp located between the supply chamber and the froth layer, the overflow ramp configured to direct the supplied slurry from the supply chamber to the froth layer. Implementation of the exemplary device can result in increased recovery of all hydrophobic particles, particularly larger particles. The slurry supply device can be static, and the supplied slurry can flow by gravity until it reaches the froth layer. Thus, it can evenly distribute the slurry on and / or within the froth layer in the flotation cell, thereby promoting efficient separation of coarse particles. The supply chamber of the slurry supply device can have three functions. First, it can disrupt the slurry velocity. Second, it can create a dead bed of settled particles, which can protect the area from wear. Third, the feeding device can evenly distribute the slurry by overflowing it onto the top of the overflow slope. The slurry can flow down the overflow slope and form a constant slurry layer with sufficient speed to prevent sanding of particles. The overflow slope can guide the slurry flow as horizontally as possible on / in the froth layer. Therefore, the vertical speed of the feed entering the froth layer can be minimized. According to the novel froth flotation cell, coarse particles can be recovered in an energy- and water-efficient manner. In addition, the slurry feeding device can be used in flotation cells of any shape and size.

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry supply apparatus may include a supply device connector capable of being connected to one or more slurry supply devices, wherein the supply chamber may be positioned below the supply device connector and arranged to receive a supply of slurry from the one or more slurry supply devices. The one or more slurry supply devices may supply the slurry by any means, such as by gravity or by pumping.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the feed device connector may comprise a top plate having one or more feed openings, through which the fed slurry may be arranged to enter the feed chamber and / or compartment.

[0008] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the supply chamber may include a supply chamber bottom and a slurry overflow lip located above the supply chamber bottom; an overflow slope extends obliquely downward from the slurry overflow lip, wherein the supplied slurry is configured to flow from the supply chamber through the slurry overflow lip to the overflow slope during operation of the slurry supply device.

[0009] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the feed chamber may be annular, and the slurry overflow lip may be arranged on a periphery of the feed chamber.

[0010] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the supply chamber may be divided into separate compartments by one or more partition walls.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry feeding ramp may be arranged at an angle of 10 to 60 degrees to the horizontal.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry overflow lip may be annular, and the slurry feed ramp may surround the slurry overflow lip.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry feeding device may comprise feeding belts which extend from a lower edge of the overflow ramp and are arranged at a distance from one another in the direction of the lower edge.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the ends of the feed belts may be connected to the lower edge of the feed ramp, and the feed belts may taper towards their second ends.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the feeder belt may be triangular in shape.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry supply device may include one or more downwardly inclined guide plates positioned below the lower edge of the overflow ramp and / or the supply belt. The one or more guide plates may be configured to direct slurry discharged from the overflow ramp toward a froth overflow lip of a tank (e.g., a flotation tank).

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the supply chamber may be configured to operate at atmospheric pressure. When the supply chamber operates at atmospheric pressure, the supplied slurry may not need to be pressurized, and thus the supplied slurry may flow smoothly to the foam layer in the tank.

[0018] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry supply device may further include at least one bubble device configured to supply bubbles into the supply chamber and / or onto the overflow slope. The slurry supply device may have one or more bubble devices, which may be different and located in different positions.

[0019] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the at least one bubble device may include one or more gas supply devices configured to supply bubbles into the supply chamber and / or onto the overflow ramp. Gas supply devices of different sizes and numbers may allow different quantities of bubbles to be supplied to different locations in the supply chamber and / or onto the overflow ramp. The gas supply device may include one or more pipes or tubes.

[0020] According to the exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, one or more gas supply devices can be configured to supply bubbles into the supply chamber through the top plate, the supply chamber bottom and / or one or more supply chamber sidewalls. When the one or more gas supply devices enter the supply chamber through the top plate, it can maximize the mixing of particles and bubbles and minimize bypass. A portion of the particles can be arranged on the bottom of the supply chamber to protect the bottom from wear. It can also reduce the wear of (one or more) supply chamber sides. However, other arrangements can also be used.

[0021] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the at least one bubble device can be configured to supply bubbles on an overflow slope, wherein the one or more gas supply devices can be arranged to supply bubbles across the width of the overflow slope perpendicular to the slurry flow. The bubble device can have one or more outlets or nozzles arranged in a row to discharge bubbles from the one or more gas supply devices. When the one or more gas supply devices are arranged in this manner, bubble-particle adhesion can be increased.

[0022] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the overflow slope may comprise a slope bottom, wherein the bubble device may be configured at a distance d from a lower edge of the overflow slope. b The gas supply device or devices may be arranged at the bottom of the slope. When the outlet or nozzles of the gas supply device or devices are arranged at a distance d from the lower edge of the overflow slope, the gas supply device or devices may be arranged at a distance d from the lower edge of the overflow slope. b When the slurry is at the bottom of the slope at 400 nm, the bubble-particle attachment can be completed just before the slurry enters the tank, which can lead to increased mineral recovery. In addition, the particles may have a chance to attach to the bubbles before they enter the tank, which can help them maintain contact with the bubbles before entering the foam layer.

[0023] According to example embodiments of the first aspect, the bottom of the slope can have at least one of the following forms: curved, stepped, and / or corrugated. The shape of the bottom of the slope can reduce the velocity of the slurry. The curve at the bottom of the slope can further reduce the kinetic energy and / or velocity of the supplied slurry before it enters the belt and / or weir.

[0024] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, each of the one or more gas supply devices may include one or more nozzles or outlets. The one or more nozzles or outlets may guide the flow of the bubbles.

[0025] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the overflow ramp may include a ramp surface, which may include a ramp bottom and a weir, wherein the ramp surface may be arranged toward the froth layer; the ramp surface may be configured to slope toward the froth layer and downwardly slope toward the ramp bottom; and the ramp surface may be configured to rise from the ramp bottom toward the weir. The form of the ramp may reduce the velocity of the feed flow entering the froth layer in the primary flotation tank, which may reduce turbulence in the froth layer and froth collapse.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the first aspect, the slurry supply apparatus may include 1 to 512 slurry supply devices.

[0027] According to a second aspect, a flotation cell for treating particles suspended in a slurry is disclosed, wherein the flotation cell comprises: a tank for holding a volume of slurry and a froth layer above the volume of slurry; and a slurry feed device according to any one of the first aspects. By mixing air bubbles with the slurry upstream of the flotation tank, some bubble-particle attachment is achieved before the fed slurry enters the main flotation tank. This can result in increased recovery rates because, in addition to recovery in the main flotation tank, some particle recovery can occur in the slurry feed device. However, primary bubble-particle contact may occur in the tank. Coarse particles in the fed slurry may have an opportunity to attach to air bubbles before entering the main flotation tank. Then, when they enter the froth layer in the tank, they may already be attached to the air bubbles and are more likely to remain in the froth layer and float. In conventional tanks, when coarse particles enter the main chamber, they may tend to sink and may have difficulty floating. The velocity of the feed flow entering the froth layer in the main flotation chamber can be reduced by adding gas to the slurry feed device. In addition, the slurry stream with bubbles can have a lower specific gravity and therefore can carry less energy when it flows into and mixes with the foam layer. This can reduce turbulence and foam collapse in the foam layer, which can be critical for high recovery rates. Implementation of the example apparatus and method can result in increased recovery rates for all hydrophobic particles, particularly larger particles.

[0028] According to an example 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 into the flotation tank at the froth layer. When the slurry is gravity-fed, the fed slurry may not need to be pressurized, and thus, the fed slurry does not need to be pumped into the cell under high pressure. Instead, the fed slurry may flow smoothly into the froth layer in the tank. However, a pumping device may also be used for the fed slurry.

[0029] According to example embodiments, in a conventional gravity-fed flotation cell, gas for generating flotation bubbles may be added via a gasification fluid generator in the primary flotation tank. Specifically, the feed slurry, which may enter the feed chamber and then flow onto the overflow ramp and from the overflow ramp to the froth layer, may be free of added gas. Gas may be added to the primary flotation tank below the froth layer, where it may rise from the primary flotation tank to the froth layer and adhere to fine and / or coarse particles of the slurry.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the feed chamber can have an annular or circular shape and can be arranged concentrically with the tank sidewall. It can be positioned about a central axis. The feed chamber can be arranged at a distance from the central axis of the flotation tank. The position and shape of the feed chamber can allow it to be placed directly below one or more slurry feeders. According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, the slurry feed apparatus can include 1 to 512 slurry feeders. The slurry feeders can be tubes or pipes. The slurry feed apparatus can include 2 to 400 slurry feeders, preferably 4 to 240 slurry feeders. The exact number of slurry feeders in the flotation cell can depend on the size or volume of the flotation tank, the type of material to be collected, and other process parameters. By arranging a sufficient number of slurry feeders in the flotation cell and by arranging them in a specific manner relative to the center and periphery of the flotation tank and / or the tank sidewalls, uniform distribution of the slurry can be ensured, while also ensuring a high probability of collision between bubbles and ore particles.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, one or more slurry feeders can be arranged concentrically with a tank sidewall of the flotation cell. One or more slurry feeders can be arranged concentrically with the tank sidewall of the flotation cell at a distance from the central axis of the flotation cell. By arranging a sufficient number of slurry feeders in the flotation cell in a specific manner relative to the center and periphery of the flotation cell and / or the tank sidewall, a uniform distribution of slurry can be ensured while ensuring a high probability of collisions between bubbles and particles.

[0032] According to an exemplary embodiment of the second aspect, one or more slurry feed devices may be arranged above the foam layer. By arranging one or more slurry feed devices above the foam layer, it is possible to utilize a gravity feed system or other systems in which slurry is fed above or below the foam layer and / or from the side wall of the tank.

[0033] According to example embodiments of the second aspect, the slurry feed device can be configured to feed the slurry onto the foam layer, into the foam layer, into the foam-slurry interface, and / or immediately below the foam layer. The foam-slurry interface can refer to the layer at the top of the slurry within the flotation tank. The gas retention percentage at the foam-slurry interface can be between 10-50%. Different methods and systems can be used to feed the slurry into different parts of the foam layer. The position of the slurry feed device can also be based on the rheological properties of the slurry and / or the bubbles to be fed into the slurry.

[0034] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may further comprise a launder having a launder lip for collecting froth from the froth layer.A tank comprising the launder may facilitate collection of flotation product from the tank.

[0035] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may further include one or more froth crowders arranged to direct froth toward the launder. The crowders may be used to direct or channel upwardly flowing slurry and / or vaporized fluid within the flotation tank closer to a froth overflow lip of the froth collection launder, thereby enabling or facilitating froth formation very close to the froth overflow lip, which may increase the collection of valuable ore particles.

[0036] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may include a flotation gas supply device for supplying flotation gas into the slurry below the slurry supply device. The flotation gas supply device may allow a froth layer to remain above the slurry.

[0037] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the flotation cell may include a flotation liquid supply device for supplying flotation liquid to a volume of slurry below the slurry supply device.

[0038] It should be understood that the exemplary embodiments of the first and second aspects described above can be used in any combination with each other. Several exemplary embodiments can be combined together to form another embodiment.

[0039] According to a third aspect, a flotation line comprising one or more flotation cells is disclosed, wherein at least one flotation cell is a flotation cell according to any of the second aspects. Particle recovery can be improved by increasing the number of flotation cells in the flotation line or by recycling the once floated material (overflow) or tailings flow (underflow) back to the start of the flotation line or to a preceding flotation cell.

[0040] According to a fourth aspect, a method for treating particles suspended in a slurry in a flotation cell according to the second aspect or any embodiment of the second aspect, wherein the method comprises: providing a tank for containing a volume of slurry and a froth layer above the volume of slurry; supplying the slurry to a supply chamber via a slurry supply device including one or more slurry supply devices; receiving the supplied slurry from the one or more slurry supply devices via the supply chamber; directing the supplied slurry from the supply chamber to the froth layer via an overflow ramp between the supply chamber and the tank; and supplying bubbles into the supplied slurry via one or more bubble devices before the supplied slurry enters the froth layer. By mixing the bubbles with the supplied slurry upstream of the flotation tank, some bubble-particle attachment can be achieved before the supplied slurry enters the main flotation tank. This can result in increased recovery because some particle recovery can occur in the supplied slurry supply device in addition to recovery in the main flotation tank. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The present disclosure will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in light of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 An example of a flotation cell with a slurry feed is schematically shown,

[0043] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an example of a bubble device configured to supply bubbles into a supply chamber,

[0044] Figure 3 Another example of a bubble device configured to supply bubbles on an overflow ramp is schematically shown,

[0045] Figure 4 schematically shows a further example of a bubble device configured to supply bubbles on an overflow ramp, and

[0046] Figure 5 An example method for treating particles suspended in a slurry and for separating the slurry into an underflow and an overflow using a flotation cell is shown.

[0047] Unless specifically stated to the contrary, any of the foregoing figures 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 the embodiments of any of the aforementioned figures may be out of scale with respect to one another in the figures in order to emphasize certain structural aspects of the embodiments of the figures.

[0049] Reference numerals

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

[0051] d b Distance between the bubble device and the lower edge of the overflow slope

[0052] d Distance between the slurry supply device and the side wall of the tank

[0053] 1000 flotation cells

[0054] 1001 A certain volume of slurry

[0055] 1002 Foam Layer

[0056] 1003 Overflow

[0057] 1004 Tank sidewall

[0058] 1100 cans

[0059] 1101 chute

[0060] 1102 chute lip

[0061] 1103 bottom cone

[0062] 1104 Underflow outlet

[0063] 1105 bottom flow

[0064] 1108 Foam Crowder

[0065] 1109 Fluid Flow

[0066] 1200 Slurry supply device

[0067] 1201 supply chamber

[0068] 1202 slurry supply equipment (means)

[0069] 1203 Bubble Device

[0070] 1204 Bubbles

[0071] 1205 Overflow Slope

[0072] 1206 Gas supply equipment

[0073] 1207 Supply Chamber Bottom

[0074] 1208 Supply chamber side wall

[0075] 1210 bottom of the slope

[0076] 1211 Weir

[0077] 1212 Sloping surface

[0078] 1213 Nozzle

[0079] 1214 slurry

[0080] 1215 Supply Equipment Connector

[0081] 1216 Slurry overflow lip

[0082] 1217 Compartment

[0083] 1218 Partition Wall

[0084] 1219 Top Plate

[0085] 1220 Supply opening

[0086] 1221 Central Axis

[0087] 1222 Supply Belt

[0088] 1223 bottom edge

[0089] 1224 upper edge

[0090] 1225 Second End

[0091] 1226 guide plate

[0092] 1228 Outsole Surface

[0093] 1300 Flotation Gas Supply Unit

[0094] 1301 Flotation Gas DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] Reference will now be made in detail to example 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 form in which this example may be constructed or utilized. This description sets forth the functions of the example and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be implemented by different examples.

[0096] According to example embodiments, flotation involves introducing a processed mineral slurry containing mineral and rock particles into a flotation cell. A stream of bubbles (e.g., air bubbles) can be introduced into the cell, and the desired particles can attach to the bubbles and float out of the cell. Unwanted gangue particles can sink and be removed from the bottom of the cell. Flotation can be a successful technique for recovering valuable minerals from a stream of crushed ore. It can be used to separate valuable minerals from waste or gangue materials.

[0097] In a gravity-fed flotation (FID) system, the slurry feed can be fed into the flotation cell at the froth layer. That is, it can be fed on top of the froth layer, into the froth layer, into the froth-slurry interface, and / or just below the froth layer. The slurry feed can first enter a feed chamber, such as a dead bed chamber, before it enters the primary flotation tank. The feed chamber can be used to reduce the energy of the fed slurry, such as its velocity, and minimize wear on fixed components. The feed chamber can operate at ambient pressure or atmospheric pressure and can receive the fed slurry from one or more slurry feed devices at ambient pressure. The feed chamber can serve as an intermediate chamber that can dampen the velocity of the fed slurry and allow for a gradual, evenly distributed overflow from the feed chamber into the primary flotation tank.

[0098] The primary flotation tank can float valuable minerals in the froth layer. The primary flotation tank can also have a sprayer that provides a supply of bubbles that rise through the tank. The froth layer can include bubbles, with mineral particles clinging to the bubbles at the top of the flotation tank. The froth layer can gently overflow into a circumferential channel, which can carry away any minerals that collect on the bubbles. The condition of the froth layer can be critical to the recovery rate achieved in the flotation cell. The froth layer can be fragile and may require gentle handling. In particular, the froth layer should not be subjected to high shear forces that could break or otherwise damage the froth.

[0099] Flotation cells can utilize a gravity feed upstream of the flotation tank. The gravity feed can include a feed chamber, one or more slurry feeders upstream of the feed chamber, and an overflow ramp between the feed chamber and the flotation tank. The feed chamber can receive gravity-fed slurry, for example, from above via the one or more slurry feeders. The feed chamber can be at atmospheric pressure and can be used to reduce the kinetic energy of the supplied slurry before it enters the flotation tank. The feed chamber can discharge the supplied slurry smoothly and evenly into the flotation tank via the overflow ramp. The slurry feed can flow into the upper region of the flotation tank where the froth layer is located.

[0100] In gravity fed flotation cells, because the feed slurry is at atmospheric pressure, the feed slurry can be introduced into the main flotation tank at the level of the froth layer.

[0101] According to example embodiments, in conventional gravity-fed flotation cells, air used to generate bubbles for flotation is added below the froth layer solely via atomizers in the main flotation chamber. This means that the feed slurry, which may enter the feed chamber, then flow onto the overflow ramp and from there into the froth layer of the flotation tank, may not have any added air. Air may only be added to the flotation tank. One challenge with conventional systems may be maintaining the strength and quality of the froth layer, which can achieve high recovery rates of precious minerals. The froth may not be subjected to forces that break or damage it. One factor that could damage the froth is that the feed slurry may flow over the overflow ramp and into the froth layer. In the absence of any bubbles, the kinetic energy of this overflowing slurry, due to its high specific gravity and inertia, could easily damage the froth layer. Even if the feed chamber can reduce the kinetic energy of the feed slurry, it may still carry momentum into the flotation tank, potentially damaging the froth layer already formed in the tank. Another challenge may be achieving effective adhesion of heavy mineral particles in the slurry to the bubbles in the tank. These heavy particles may tend to fall quickly through the flotation tanks after they enter the tanks, and once they have fallen, it may be difficult to attach and lift them along with the bubbles. This may be the reason for the reduced recovery of large, valuable mineral particles in these tanks. Another issue may be the challenge of obtaining as much bubble-particle contact as possible within the flotation cell. The amount of contact can directly impact the flotation cell's recovery rate. In a flotation cell, particle-bubble contact may occur in the main flotation tank. The bubbles may not come into contact with the particles in any part of the gravity-fed system's slurry feed apparatus, which may include the feed chamber and the overflow ramp that feeds the slurry into the froth layer. However, it may be advantageous if greater particle-bubble contact can be achieved with the flotation equipment.

[0102] According to an exemplary embodiment, air bubbles (e.g., air bubbles) are introduced into the slurry feed upstream of the primary flotation tank before the slurry enters the flotation tank. This enhances bubble-particle attachment and slows the rate of attached particles through the initial froth feed zone. This can overcome the aforementioned issues associated with gravity-fed flotation systems. By mixing the air bubbles with the slurry upstream of the flotation tank, some bubble-particle attachment can be achieved before the slurry enters the flotation tank. This can lead to increased recovery rates because, in addition to recovery in the primary flotation tank, some particle recovery can occur in the slurry feed. Coarse particles in the feed slurry may have an opportunity to attach to the air bubbles before entering the tank. Then, when the air bubbles enter the froth layer in the tank, they may already be attached to the bubbles and may be more likely to remain in the froth layer and float. The velocity of the feed slurry entering the froth layer in the flotation tank can be reduced by adding gas to the slurry feed. Furthermore, the slurry flow with air bubbles can have a lower specific gravity, thereby carrying less energy when it flows into and mixes with the froth layer. This can reduce turbulence and foam collapse in the froth layer, which can be critical for high recoveries.Implementation of the flotation cell and method can result in increased recoveries of all hydrophobic particles, particularly larger particles.

[0103] According to an example embodiment, a gas stream is introduced into a supply chamber of a slurry supply device, where the gas stream mixes with the slurry stream. The gas can be added to the supply chamber separately from the slurry supply stream. The particles and bubbles can contact each other in the supply chamber. The gas can be introduced into the supply chamber by a bubble device, which includes one or more gas supply devices or sprayers that can generate bubbles that can contact the slurry particles. A preferred location for one or more gas supply devices to enter the supply chamber can be through the top plate. This location can maximize the mixing of particles and bubbles and minimize bypass. It can also reduce wear on the bottom of the supply chamber. However, the gas can be introduced into the supply chamber through the bottom of the supply chamber and / or one or more supply chamber sides.

[0104] According to an exemplary embodiment, an air flow is introduced onto an overflow ramp where it mixes with the slurry flow before it flows over the overflow ramp and into the froth layer in the flotation tank. Gas may be added to the flow channel downstream of the supply chamber and upstream of the flotation tank. The supplied slurry may flow gently from the supply chamber over the overflow ramp into the froth layer of the tank. The overflow ramp may slope gently downward from the supply chamber to the bottom of the ramp and then upward to a weir over which the supplied slurry may flow into the main chamber. One or more gas supply devices or sprayers may be configured to provide air bubbles to the overflow ramp. The one or more gas supply devices may have one or more outlets or sprayers that may extend across the width of the overflow ramp transverse to the direction of slurry flow. Air bubbles may be introduced into the supplied slurry near the bottom of the ramp where they may mix with the supplied slurry before it enters the flotation tank.

[0105] Introducing air bubbles into the slurry feed may enhance bubble-particle attachment and slow the feed rate of the slurry feed and the air bubbles into the froth layer in the flotation tank.

[0106] Attached Figure 1 The example shows flotation cell 1000 in more detail. Figures 2 to 4 An example embodiment of a slurry feed arrangement is shown in schematic form. The figures are not drawn to scale and many components of the flotation cell 1000 have been omitted for clarity.

[0107] according to Figure 1 The flotation cell 1000 of the example embodiment is intended for processing mineral ore particles suspended in a supplied slurry 1214 and for separating a volume of slurry 1001 into an underflow 1005 and an overflow 1003, which may include a concentrate of the desired mineral.

[0108] As used herein, overflow refers to the portion of slurry that collects in the launder of a flotation cell and thereby leaves the cell. The overflow may include froth, froth and slurry, or in some cases, only slurry or a substantial portion of the slurry. In some embodiments, the overflow may be a receiving stream containing valuable material particles collected from the slurry. In other embodiments, the overflow may be a waste stream. This is particularly true when the flotation cell and / or method is used in reverse flotation.

[0109] Underflow herein refers to a small portion or portion of the slurry that does not float to the surface of the slurry during the flotation process. In certain embodiments, underflow can be a waste stream that leaves the flotation cell via an outlet, which is typically located at the bottom of the flotation cell. Ultimately, the underflow from the final flotation cell of a flotation line or flotation device can leave the entire device as a tailings stream or final residue of the flotation device. In certain embodiments, underflow can be a receiving stream that contains precious mineral particles. This is the case when a flotation cell or flotation line is used for reverse flotation.

[0110] According to an example embodiment, a flotation cell 1000 includes a tank 1100 for containing a volume of slurry 1001 and a foam layer 1002 above the volume of slurry 1001, and a slurry supply device 1200 configured to supply a supply of slurry 1214 to the foam layer 1002. The slurry supply device 1200 may include one or more slurry supply devices 1202 configured to supply the slurry 1214, and a supply chamber 1201 configured to receive the supplied slurry 1214 from the one or more slurry supply devices 1202. The slurry supply device 1200 may also include: an overflow slope 1205, located between the supply chamber 1201 and the tank 1100, the overflow slope being configured to guide the slurry 1214 from the supply chamber 1201 to the foam layer 1002; and one or more bubble devices 1203, being configured to supply bubbles 1204 to the slurry 1214 before the slurry 1214 enters the foam layer 1002.

[0111] Throughout this specification, "flotation" may refer to the separation of a mixture by adhering to substances in the mixture at an interface. In flotation, the separation of a mixture may be based on differences in the hydrophobicity of substances in the mixture. As used herein, "separation" may refer to the extraction or removal of substances from a mixture for use or discharge.

[0112] Furthermore, "froth flotation" may refer to flotation in which foam is used for separation. In this document, "froth" 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. Typically, the froth may or may not be stabilized by solid particles. In the froth, the bubbles may typically have an average diameter greater than or equal to 1 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the average distance between adjacent bubbles in the froth that are 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 froth stabilized by solid particles, the average distance between adjacent bubbles may increase in proportion to the average size and number of the solid particles.

[0113] On the other hand, "flotation liquid" may refer to any liquid substance or mixture suitable for flotation. Although water or aqueous solutions are usually used as flotation liquids in practical applications, other types of liquid substances may also be used as known to those skilled in the art.

[0114] The term "flotation gas" may refer to any gaseous substance suitable for flotation. Although air is usually used as the flotation gas in practical applications, other types of gaseous substances may also be used, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0115] Figure 1 A froth flotation cell 1000 is shown, and Figures 2 to 4 A slurry supply device 1200 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. A froth flotation cell 1000 includes a flotation tank 1100, in which the slurry supply device 1200 is disposed. The slurry supply device 1200 is configured to supply slurry 1214 directly to a froth layer 1002 formed at the top of the flotation tank 1100 of the flotation cell 1000. The slurry supply device 1200 is configured to supply slurry 1214 to interact with the froth layer 1002 above, within, or at a foam-slurry interface above, the froth layer 1002, and / or below the froth layer 1002, for example, at a depth below the froth layer 1002 of at most twice the froth depth, at most the froth depth, at most 1 / 2 the froth depth, at most 1 / 5 the froth depth, or at most 1 / 10 the froth depth.

[0116] The slurry supplied by the slurry supply device 1200 may contain coarse mineral ore particles.

[0117] The slurry supply 1200 may include a supply connector 1215 that may be connectable to the slurry supply 1202 of the flotation cell 1000 .

[0118] The slurry supply device 1200 may further include a supply chamber 1201 positioned below the supply device connector 1215. The supply chamber 1201 may be arranged to receive supplied slurry 1214 from the supply device connector 1215 during operation of the slurry supply device 1200. The supply chamber 1201 may be circular, rectangular, or annular. Figure 4 The example of FIG. 1 shows that the supply chamber 1201 includes one or more partition walls 1218 by which the supply chamber 1201 is divided into individual compartments 1217. The supply chamber 1201 may include 3 to 30 compartments 1217. The supply chamber 1201 may be attached to a supply device connector 1215.

[0119] The supply chamber 1201 may include a supply chamber bottom 6 and a slurry overflow lip 1216 located above the supply chamber bottom 6. The slurry overflow lip 1216 may be arranged on the periphery of the supply chamber 1201. The slurry overflow lip 1216 may be annular. The slurry overflow lip 1216 may form the outer edge of the supply chamber 1201 / each compartment 1217.

[0120] The supply device connector 1215 can include a top plate 1219 having a supply opening 1220 through which the slurry 1214 can be arranged to enter the supply chamber 1201 and / or the compartments 1217. The top plate 1219 can include one or more supply openings 1220 for each compartment 1217. The supply chamber 1201 can be attached to the top plate 1219, for example, to a lower surface of the top plate 1219.

[0121] The slurry supply device 1200 may further include an overflow ramp 1205 extending downwardly from the slurry overflow lip 1216. The overflow ramp 1205 may include an inclined plate extending downwardly from the slurry overflow lip 1216. During operation of the slurry supply device, the slurry 1214 may be configured to flow from the supply chamber 1201 / compartment 1217 through the slurry overflow lip 1216 onto the overflow ramp 1205 and downwardly along the overflow ramp 1205. The overflow ramp 1205 may include an upper edge 1224 connected to the slurry overflow lip 1216 and a lower edge 1223. The overflow ramp 1205 may be arranged at an angle of 10 to 60 degrees from the horizontal. The overflow ramp 1205 may surround the slurry overflow lip 1216. The overflow ramp 1205 may have a truncated cone shape.

[0122] The slurry supply device may further include supply belts 1222 extending from a lower edge 1223 of the overflow ramp 1205. The supply belts 1222 may be arranged at a distance from each other in the direction of the lower edge 1223 so that the supplied slurry 1214 discharged from the overflow ramp 1205 can flow along and between the supply belts 1222 to the foam layer 1002. The ends of the supply belts 1222 may be connected to the lower edge 1223 of the overflow ramp 1205. The supply belts 1222 may gradually taper toward their second ends 1225. The shape of the supply belts 1222 may be triangular. The supply belts 1222 may extend downward from the lower edge 1223 of the overflow ramp 1205 horizontally or obliquely. The supply belts 1222 may increase the slurry supply capacity of the slurry supply device 1200 and promote a more uniform distribution of the slurry 1214 into the foam layer 1002.

[0123] The supply device 1200 may further include one or more downwardly inclined guide plates 1226 positioned below the lower edge 1223 of the supply ramp 1205 and / or the supply belt 1222. The guide plates 1226 may be arranged in a stepped manner so that the slurry 1214 can flow from an upper guide plate 1226 to a lower guide plate 1226. The guide plates 1226 may be arranged at an angle of 10 to 60 degrees relative to the horizontal plane. The guide plates 1226 may direct the upward flow of flotation bubbles 1204 within the froth layer 1002 toward the trough lip 1102 of the flotation tank 1100, slowing the downward velocity of the slurry flow after leaving the supply belt 1222, thereby increasing the residence time of the slurry 1214 in the froth layer 1002.

[0124] The froth flotation cell 1000 can be configured to process coarse mineral ore particles suspended in a supplied slurry 1214 and separate a volume of slurry 1001 into an overflow 1003 and an underflow 1105. The flotation cell 1000 can be a mechanically agitated flotation cell or a column flotation cell. The flotation cell 1000 can include a flotation tank 1100 and a gas supply 1300 for introducing flotation gas 1301 into a volume of slurry 1003 in the flotation tank 1100 to form a froth layer 1002 at the top of the flotation tank 1100. The flotation tank 1100 can be circular or rectangular. The flotation cell 1000 can include a mixing device, such as a rotor-stator type agitator, and the gas supply 1300 can be arranged to be connected to the mixing device. Alternatively, the gas supply 1300 may include a gas inlet, such as a sprayer, configured to introduce the flotation gas 1301 into the flotation tank 1100, as is the case in a column flotation cell.

[0125] The flotation tank 1100 can include a froth collection launder 1101 having a launder lip 1102 disposed at an upper portion of the flotation tank 1100. The launder lip 1102 can surround the periphery of the flotation tank 1100. During use of the flotation cell 1000, a froth layer 1002 can form at the top of the flotation tank 1100. The froth, which can include flotation bubbles agglomerated with mineral ore particles, can drain from the froth layer 1002 above the launder lip 1102 into the froth collection launder 1101 and be discharged from the flotation cell 1000 as an overflow 1003.

[0126] The flotation tank 1100 may further include an underflow outlet 1104 disposed at a sidewall at or near the bottom of the flotation tank 1100. Tailings or underflow 1105 may be discharged from the flotation tank 1100 through the underflow outlet 1104.

[0127] Furthermore, the flotation cell 1000 can include the aforementioned slurry supply apparatus 1200. A supply device connector 1215 of the supply apparatus 1200 can be connected to a slurry supply apparatus 1202 of the flotation cell 1000. During operation of the flotation cell 1000, the supply apparatus 1200 can be disposed above or within the froth layer 1002. The slurry supply apparatus 1200 can be configured to supply slurry 1214 above, into, into, and / or immediately below the froth layer 1002 during operation of the flotation cell 1000.

[0128] The flotation cell 1000 can be operated as follows. By introducing flotation gas into a volume of slurry 1001 in the flotation tank 1100, a foam layer 1002 can be formed at the top of the flotation tank 1100. A supply of slurry 1214 can be supplied from the supply device 1202 to the supply apparatus 1200. The supply of slurry 1214 can fall vertically into the supply chamber 1201. Thereafter, the supply of slurry 1214 can flow from the supply chamber 1201 over the slurry overflow lip 1216 onto the overflow ramp 1205 and flow downwardly along the overflow ramp 1205. The supply of slurry 1214 can exit the supply belt 1222 and flow along the guide plate(s) 1226 toward the launder lip 1102.

[0129] Hydrophobic particles contained in the slurry supply can adhere to flotation bubbles in the froth layer 1002. Bubble-particle agglomerates can be removed from the flotation tank 1100 above the launder lip 1102 and into the froth collection launder 1101 with the overflow 1003. Hydrophilic particles can pass through the froth layer 1002 to the volume of slurry 1001 below it and can be discharged from the flotation tank 1100 with the underflow 1105.

[0130] exist Figures 2 to 4 In the example of FIG. 1 , the flotation cell 1000 includes a bubble device 1203 for supplying bubbles 1204 into the slurry 1214 supplied from the one or more slurry supply devices 1202. For example, the bubbles may be air bubbles.

[0131] In the present disclosure, a "gas bubble arrangement" may refer to an arrangement that is adapted or configured as a component of a flotation cell to supply flotation gas to a fed slurry. Generally, the gas bubble arrangement may include any component(s) adapted or necessary to supply flotation gas to a fed slurry, for example, one or more atomizers, such as one or more jets and / or cavitation atomizer(s), and / or one or more static mixers.

[0132] Jet sprayers can be used to directly introduce microbubbles ranging in size from 0.5 to 1.2 mm. Cavitation sprayers or Venturi sprayers can be used to introduce water and air or other gasified fluids into the flotation cell and / or the supplied slurry. In these embodiments, air / gas or air / gas and water are introduced into the sprayers to generate bubbles, which are then injected into the flotation cell or the supplied slurry. The bubbles can attach to the mineral ore particles and increase the overall recovery of the precious mineral.

[0133] exist Figure 1 In an example embodiment, air may be used as the flotation gas 1301. In other embodiments, any suitable gas may be used, such as air, argon, nitrogen, hydrogen, or mixtures thereof.

[0134] exist Figures 2 to 4 In some embodiments, air can be used as the bubble gas. In other embodiments, any suitable flotation gas can be used, for example, air, argon, nitrogen, hydrogen or a mixture thereof.

[0135] Figures 2 to 4 The bubble device 1203 of the example embodiment is configured to supply bubbles 1204 into the supplied slurry 1214 such that the bubbles 1204 are added to the supplied slurry 1214 .

[0136] Figures 2 to 4 The bubble device 1203 of the example embodiment is configured to supply bubbles 1204 into the supplied slurry 1214 after the slurry supply device 1200. Generally, a bubble device configured in this manner can increase the likelihood of collecting particles containing valuable materials into the foam layer.

[0137] Figures 2 to 4 The bubble device 1203 of the example embodiment is configured to supply bubbles 1204 to the supplied slurry 1214 by supplying bubbles 1204 to the supplied slurry 1214 via the one or more gas supply devices 1206 , after and / or below the one or more slurry supply devices 1202 .

[0138] Throughout this specification, a "cell" may refer to a device suitable for or configured to perform at least one specific process. Naturally, a "flotation cell" may refer to a cell suitable for or configured to subject a material to flotation. A cell may generally include one or more components, and each of the one or more components may be classified as belonging to an apparatus.

[0139] A flotation cell for treating mineral ore particles suspended in a slurry by flotation, thereby recovering ore particles containing precious metals from the ore particles suspended in the slurry.

[0140] According to an example embodiment, a flotation line includes one or more flotation cells. A flotation line refers herein to a flotation apparatus in which a plurality of flotation cells can be arranged in fluid connection with one another so that the underflow of each preceding flotation cell can be directed as a feed to a subsequent or subsequent flotation cell until the last flotation cell in the flotation line, from which the underflow can be directed out of the flotation line as a tailings or waste stream. Slurry can be supplied to the first flotation cell of the flotation line via a feed inlet or slurry supply device to initiate the flotation process. A flotation line can be part of a larger flotation plant or apparatus comprising one or more flotation lines. Thus, as known to those skilled in the art, a number of different pre-treatment and post-treatment equipment or stages can be operatively connected to the components of the flotation apparatus.

[0141] The flotation cells in a flotation line can be fluidically connected to each other. The fluid connection can be achieved through conduits (such as pipes or tubes) of different lengths, which can also include pumps or regrinding units, with the length of the conduits depending on the overall physical configuration of the flotation apparatus. 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 be directly connected to each other. Direct cell connection in this article refers to the arrangement in which the outer walls of any two subsequent flotation cells are connected to each other to allow the outlet of the first flotation cell to be connected to the inlet of the subsequent flotation cell without the need for any separate conduits. Direct contact can reduce the need for piping between two adjacent flotation cells. Therefore, it can reduce the need for components during the construction of the flotation line, thereby speeding up the process. In addition, it can reduce sanding and simplify the maintenance of the flotation line. The fluid connection between the flotation cells can include various adjustment mechanisms.

[0142] As used herein, "adjacent," "adjacent," or "adjoining" a flotation cell refers to a flotation cell immediately after or before, downstream or upstream of any flotation cell, or in a rougher flotation line, in a scavenger flotation line, or in the relationship between a flotation cell of a rougher flotation line and a flotation cell of a scavenger flotation line into which the underflow from the flotation cell of the rougher flotation line can be directed.

[0143] The flotation cell may comprise a tank or container in which the steps of the flotation process may be performed. The flotation cell may typically be cylindrical in shape, defined by one or more outer walls. The flotation cell may typically have a circular cross-section. The flotation cell may also have a polygonal (such as a rectangular, square, triangular, hexagonal, or pentagonal) or other radially symmetrical cross-section. As is known to those skilled in the art, the number of flotation cells may vary depending on the particular flotation line and / or operation used to process a particular type and / or grade of ore.

[0144] The slurry supply device may include a supply chamber into which the supplied slurry flows. The supply chamber may generally be cylindrical in shape, defined by one or more outer walls. The supply chamber may generally have a circular or annular cross-section. The supply chamber may also have a polygonal shape, such as a rectangle, square, triangle, hexagon, or pentagon, or other radially symmetrical cross-section. For example, when the supply chamber has a rectangular form, the supplied slurry may be supplied from one side wall toward the opposite side wall.

[0145] The flotation cell can be a froth flotation cell, such as a mechanically agitated cell, for example, a tank flotation cell, a column flotation cell, a Jameson flotation cell, a gravity-fed flotation cell, or a dual flotation cell. In a dual flotation cell, the cell can include at least two separate vessels: a first mechanically agitated pressure vessel having a mixer and a gasified fluid input, and a second vessel having a tailings output and an overflow froth discharge, the second vessel being arranged to receive the agitated slurry from the first vessel. The flotation cell can also be a fluidized bed flotation cell (such as a HydroFloat™ cell), in which bubbles of air or other gasified fluid dispersed by a fluidization system penetrate through the hindered coagulation zone and attach to the hydrophobic component, changing its density and providing it with 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, which operates with a constant slurry overflow. In an overflow flotation cell, the slurry is processed by introducing 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 precious metals can adhere to the bubbles and rise upward due to buoyancy. At least a portion of the ore particles containing precious metals can adhere to the bubbles and rise upward with the continuous upward flow of the slurry. At least a portion of the ore particles containing precious metals can rise upward with the continuous upward flow of the slurry. The ore particles containing precious metals can be recovered by directing the continuous upward flow of the slurry out of at least one overflow flotation cell as slurry overflow. Because the overflow chamber can operate with almost no froth depth or froth layer, virtually no froth zone forms on the slurry surface at the top of the flotation cell. The froth can be discontinuous in the flotation cell. This can result in more ore particles containing precious minerals being entrained into the concentrate stream, and the overall recovery rate of precious materials can be increased.

[0146] All flotation cells of a flotation line may be of a single type, i.e., the coarse flotation cells in the coarse flotation section, the scavenger flotation cells in the scavenger section, and the scavenger cleaner flotation cells of the scavenger cleaner flotation line may be of a single cell type, 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 the 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.

[0147] Depending on its type, the flotation cell may include a mixer for agitating the slurry to keep it suspended. A mixer as used herein refers to any suitable device for agitating the slurry within the flotation cell. The mixer may be a mechanical agitator. The mechanical agitator may include a rotor-stator structure having a motor and a drive shaft, with the rotor-stator structure being arranged at the bottom of the flotation cell. The flotation cell may have an auxiliary agitator arranged higher in the vertical direction of the flotation cell to ensure a sufficiently strong and continuous upward flow of the slurry.

[0148] An "arrangement" of a flotation cell configured to perform a process may refer to a set of components of the flotation cell that is suitable for or configured to perform at least one specific sub-process of the process. Thus, a "flotation cell comprising an arrangement" may refer to the flotation cell that includes the components belonging to the arrangement. On the other hand, an arrangement for a flotation cell may refer to a set of components that is suitable for or configured to perform at least one specific sub-process. In general, an arrangement for a flotation cell may or may not form part of the flotation cell. Any arrangement may include any (one or more) components that are necessary and / or beneficial for performing its specific sub-process, for example, (one or more) mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and / or hydraulic components. As used herein, a "component" 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, an arrangement or a cell.

[0149] Furthermore, "slurry" may refer to a dispersion comprising solid particles suspended in a continuous phase of a flotation liquid. Thus, a "slurry feeding arrangement" may refer to an arrangement of a flotation cell or a component thereof that is suitable or configured to feed slurry into a tank of the flotation cell. The slurry feeding arrangement may be suitable or configured to feed slurry to a froth layer above a volume of slurry in a tank of the flotation cell.

[0150] As used herein, slurry "fed to a froth layer" may refer to feeding the slurry above and / or into the froth layer, and / or immediately below the froth layer, for example, 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 below the froth layer, and / or into the froth-slurry interface. Additionally or alternatively, in embodiments where the height of the launder lip defines the height of the upper surface of the froth layer, slurry fed to the froth layer may refer to feeding the slurry into the tank at the height of the launder lip and / or at a position below the height of the launder lip 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 slurry is fed to a froth layer may be referred to as "froth interaction flotation." Naturally, a "froth interaction flotation cell" may refer to a flotation cell configured or suitable for separating materials by froth interaction flotation.

[0151] Figure 1 The example flotation cell 1000 can be configured to maintain a froth depth of about 5 cm in the froth layer 1002. In other embodiments, where the slurry supply device is configured to supply slurry to the froth layer, any suitable substantially non-zero d f , for example, d in the range of 1 cm to 200 cm f .

[0152] In this document, "foam depth" may refer to the thickness of the foam layer in the tank. When the tank is in use, the foam depth may be measured as the vertical distance between the lip of the launder and the surface of a volume of slurry in the tank.

[0153] In this document, "tank" may refer to a container suitable for or configured to hold a fluid (e.g., liquid). Additionally, "a volume of slurry" may refer to an amount of slurry.

[0154] Figure 1 The flotation cell 1000 of the example embodiment can be used for so-called "standard flotation," in which valuable minerals in a slurry are collected as an overflow and gangue is directed to an underflow. In other example embodiments, the flotation cell can be used in any suitable manner, for example, in standard flotation and / or in so-called "reverse flotation," in which valuable minerals in a slurry are directed to an underflow and gangue is collected as an overflow.

[0155] Figure 1The flotation cell 1000 of the example embodiment may be configured for so-called "rough flotation," wherein a slurry comprising a large number of relatively coarse solid particles is used as the feed material for flotation. In other example embodiments, the flotation cell may or may not be configured for rough flotation.

[0156] exist Figure 1 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.

[0157] Figure 1 The tank 1100 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 is configured to hold a volume of slurry 1001 and a foam layer 1002 above the volume of slurry 1001. In other embodiments, the tank may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0158] According to an example embodiment, flotation cell 1000 is a gravity fed flotation cell.

[0159] A gravity-fed flotation cell refers to a system in which the slurry can be fed into the flotation cell at the froth layer. This means that the slurry can be fed on top of the froth, into the froth, and / or just below the froth. The fed slurry can first enter a dead bed chamber or a feed chamber before it enters the main flotation tank. The feed chamber can be used to reduce the slurry energy (velocity) and minimize wear on fixed components. The feed chamber can operate at ambient pressure or atmospheric pressure and can receive slurry from at least one feed device at ambient pressure. The feed chamber can serve as an intermediate chamber that can suppress the slurry velocity and allow a gradually evenly distributed overflow from the supply chamber over an overflow ramp into the main flotation tank.

[0160] Figure 1 The slurry supply device 1200 of the exemplary embodiment is configured to supply slurry 1214 to the froth layer 1002. Thus, 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 coarser mineral particles in the slurry. In other embodiments, the slurry supply device may be adapted or configured to supply coarse slurry to the froth layer.

[0161] exist Figure 1 In the example embodiment of FIG. 1 , the slurry supply device 1200 is disposed at a distance d from the sidewall 1004 of the tank 1100. In other embodiments, the slurry supply device may or may not be disposed at a distance d from the sidewall of the tank.

[0162] More specifically, in Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1 , the slurry supply 1200 is centrally located relative to the tank 1100. In other embodiments, the slurry supply may be located in any suitable manner, such as centrally located relative to the tank.

[0163] According to example embodiments, the supply chamber 1201 may be configured to operate at atmospheric pressure.

[0164] According to example embodiments, the at least one bubble device 1203 may be configured to supply bubbles 1204 into the supply chamber 1201 and / or onto the overflow ramp 1205 .

[0165] According to example embodiments, the bubble arrangement 1203 may include one or more gas supply devices 1206 configured to supply bubbles 1204 into the supply chamber 1201 and / or on the overflow ramp 1205 .

[0166] Figure 2 The example of FIG. 1 shows a slurry supply device 1200, which includes a bubble device 1203 configured to supply bubbles 1204 into a supply chamber 1201. The supply chamber 1201 may include a supply chamber bottom 1207, one or more supply chamber sidewalls 1208, and a top plate 1219. According to one example, two gas supply devices 1206 are arranged on both sides of the slurry supply device 1202.

[0167] The bubble device 1203 may include one or more gas supply devices 1206 configured to supply bubbles 1204 into the supply chamber 1201. The one or more gas supply devices 1206 may be arranged at least on one side of the one or more slurry supply devices 1202 or around the one or more slurry supply devices 1202.

[0168] The slurry supply device 1200 may further include an overflow ramp 1205, which includes a ramp bottom 1210, a ramp surface 1212, and a weir 1211. Bubbles 1204 may be added to the supply chamber 1201 separately from the supplied slurry 1214. The particles and bubbles 1204 may come into contact with each other in the supply chamber 1201. Gas may be introduced into the supply chamber 1201 using a sprayer, which may generate bubbles 1204, which may then come into contact with the slurry particles. The supplied slurry 1214 may flow slowly from the supply chamber 1201 over the overflow ramp 1205 and into the foam layer 1002 of the tank 1100. The overflow ramp 1205 may slope gently downward from the supply chamber 1201 to the ramp bottom 1210, where the lowest point may be located, and then upward to the weir 1211, over which the slurry 1214 may flow into the tank.

[0169] According to an example embodiment, the one or more gas supply devices 1206 are configured to supply gas bubbles 1204 inside the supply chamber 1201 through the top plate 1219, the supply chamber bottom 1207, and / or the one or more supply chamber sides 1208. The one or more gas supply devices 1206 may be configured to supply the gas bubbles 1204 inside the supply chamber 1201 through the top plate 1219 to the supply chamber bottom 1207.

[0170] Figure 3 and Figure 4 1 and 2. The example of FIG. 1 shows a bubble device 1203 configured to supply bubbles 1201 on an overflow ramp 1205. A supplied slurry 1214 can flow from the supply chamber 1201 through the overflow ramp 1205 into the froth layer 1002 of the flotation tank 1100. The overflow ramp 1205 can slope gently downward from the supply chamber 1205 to a ramp bottom 1210 and then upward to a weir 1211 over which the slurry 1214 can flow into the tank 1100. One or more gas supply devices 1206 or sprayers can be arranged to supply bubbles 1204 on the overflow ramp 1205, which can extend across the width of the overflow ramp 1205 transverse to the direction of slurry flow. Gas may be introduced into the supplied slurry 1214 adjacent to the ramp bottom 1210 where the gas may mix with the slurry 1214 before the slurry 1214 may enter the tank 1100 .

[0171] According to an example embodiment, the bubble arrangement 1203 is configured to supply bubbles 1204 on the overflow slope 1205 , wherein one or more gas supply devices 1206 may be arranged to provide bubbles 1204 over the width of the overflow slope 1205 perpendicular to the flow of the slurry 1214 .

[0172] According to an exemplary embodiment, the overflow slope 1205 includes a slope bottom 1210, wherein a bubble device 1203 is configured to supply bubbles 1204 on the overflow slope 1205, wherein one or more gas supply devices 1206 are arranged. Each gas supply device 1206 can have a nozzle 1213 or outlet. The bubble device can have one or more nozzles 1213 arranged in a row across the width of the overflow slope 1205 perpendicular to the flow of the slurry 1214.

[0173] According to an example embodiment, each of the one or more gas supply devices 1206 includes one or more nozzles 1213 .

[0174] According to an exemplary embodiment, overflow slope 1205 includes a slope surface 1212, a slope bottom 1210, and a weir 1211. Slope surface 1212 may be disposed outside and around supply chamber 1201. Slope surface 1213 may be configured to slope downward and outward from top plate 1219 toward foam layer 1002 and downward along slope bottom 1210, and rise from slope bottom 1210 toward weir 1211.

[0175] According to an exemplary embodiment, the feed chamber 1201 has an annular or circular shape and may be arranged concentrically with the tank sidewall 1004 at a distance from the center axis 1221 of the flotation tank or the center of the tank 1100 .

[0176] Furthermore, the term "central axis" may refer to an imaginary line. The central axis may or may not extend through one or more central points of the tank, such as the center of mass and / or centroid. 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.

[0177] According to an example embodiment, the slurry supply apparatus comprises 1 to 512 slurry supply devices 1202. The slurry supply apparatus may comprise 2 to 40 slurry supply devices, preferably 4 to 24 slurry supply devices. The slurry supply device may comprise one or more pipes or tubes.

[0178] According to an example embodiment, one or more slurry feed devices 1202 are arranged concentrically with the tank sidewall 1004 of the flotation cell 1000. They may be arranged at a distance from the central axis 1221 of the flotation tank or at the center of the tank 1100.

[0179] According to an example embodiment, one or more slurry supply devices 1202 are disposed above the foam layer 1002 .

[0180] According to an example embodiment, the slurry supply apparatus 1200 is configured to supply the slurry 1214 onto the foam layer 1002 , into the foam layer 1002 , into the foam-slurry interface, and / or immediately below the foam layer 1002 .

[0181] According to an example embodiment, flotation cell 1000 further includes a launder 1101 having a launder lip 1102 for collecting froth 1003 from froth layer 1002 .

[0182] According to an example embodiment, the flotation cell 1000 further comprises one or more froth crowders 1108 arranged to direct froth towards the launder 1101 .

[0183] According to an example embodiment, when the flotation cell 1000 includes a froth crowder located in the center of the tank, the outer bottom surface 1228 of the froth crowder 1108 is configured to divert flotation gas and flotation liquid rising parallel to the central axis 1221 to form a fluid flow 1109 around the outer bottom surface 1228 of the froth crowder and direct the fluid flow 1109 toward the launder lip 1102.

[0184] Generally, configuring the outer bottom surface of the froth crowder in this manner can help maintain a constant flow of supplied slurry and froth from the slurry supply 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 crowder may or may not be configured to divert flotation gas 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.

[0185] A foam crowder in this context refers to a foam barrier, a foam baffle, or a crowding plate, or a crowding plate arrangement, or any other such structure or side structure having a crowding effect, such as an inclined or vertical side wall, i.e. a crowding side wall, which may also be a crowding side wall inside a flotation tank, i.e. an internal perimeter crowder.

[0186] By utilizing a froth crowder, so-called "brittle froth," i.e., a loosely textured froth layer comprising generally large flotation bubbles that agglomerate with the mineral ore particles intended to be recovered, can be directed more efficiently and reliably toward the froth overflow lip and froth collection chute. Brittle froth can easily break because the bubble-ore particle agglomerates are less stable and have reduced toughness. Such froth or froth layer cannot easily maintain the transport of ore particles, particularly coarser particles, toward the froth overflow lip for collection in the chute, thereby causing the particles to fall back into the slurry within the flotation cell or tank and reducing the recovery of the desired material. Brittle froth is typically associated with poor mineralization, i.e., the bubble-ore particle agglomerates have a limited amount of ore particles, including the desired mineral, that can attach to the bubbles during the flotation process within the flotation cell or tank. This problem is particularly evident in large-sized flotation cells or tanks having large volumes and / or large diameters. With the present invention, the foam can be squeezed and directed towards the foam overflow lip to reduce the foam conveying distance (thereby reducing the risk of fallback) while maintaining or even reducing the overflow lip length. In other words, the processing and guidance of the foam layer in the froth flotation cell or flotation tank can be made more efficient and straightforward.

[0187] It may also improve froth recovery and thereby the recovery of valuable mineral particles from brittle froth in large flotation cells or tanks, particularly in later stages of a flotation line, such as in the rougher and / or sweeper stages of a flotation process.

[0188] Furthermore, using the novel device described herein, the froth surface area on the slurry surface within the flotation tank can be reduced in a robust and simple mechanical manner. Simultaneously, the overall overflow lip length in the froth flotation cell can be reduced. Robustness, in this context, means both structural simplicity and durability. By reducing the froth surface area of ​​the flotation cell using a froth crowder 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 out of an additional crowder. In contrast, the collected overflow would have to be directed out of an additional chute, which would increase the number of structural components in the flotation cell.

[0189] Particularly at the downstream end of a flotation line, the amount of desired material that can be captured in the froth within the slurry can be very low. To collect this material from the froth layer into the froth collection chute, the froth surface area should be reduced. By placing a froth crowder in the flotation tank, the open froth surface between the froth overflow lip can be controlled. The crowder can be used to direct or guide the slurry within the flotation tank closer to the froth overflow lip of the froth collection chute, thereby enabling or facilitating froth formation very close to the froth overflow lip, which can increase the collection of valuable ore particles. The froth crowder can also influence the overall convergence of flotation bubbles and / or bubble-ore particle agglomerates into the froth layer. For example, if the bubble and / or bubble-ore particle agglomerate stream is directed toward the center of the flotation tank, the froth crowder can be used to increase the froth area at the tank's periphery and / or closer to any desired froth overflow lip. Furthermore, the open froth surface can be reduced relative to the lip length, thereby improving recovery efficiency in the froth flotation cell.

[0190] According to an example embodiment, the flotation cell 1000 includes a flotation gas supply device 1300 for supplying a flotation gas 1301 into a volume of slurry 1001 below the slurry supply device 1200 .

[0191] The flotation gas supply 1300 may be configured to supply flotation gas 1301 into the volume of slurry 1001 such that a froth layer 1002 may remain on the volume of slurry 1001. In other example embodiments, the flotation gas supply may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0192] The flotation gas supply device 1300 can be configured to supply flotation gas 1301 to a volume of slurry 1001 below the slurry supply device 1200. Generally, a flotation gas supply device configured in this manner can direct rising flotation bubbles within the volume of slurry onto the outer bottom surface of the lower portion of the slurry supply device and / or increase the likelihood that particles containing valuable material will be recollected into the froth layer after falling. In other embodiments, the flotation gas supply device may or may not be configured in this manner.

[0193] The flotation gas supply device 1300 may be configured to supply flotation gas 1301 into the volume of slurry 1001 below the slurry supply device 1200 by supplying the flotation gas 1301 into the volume of slurry 1001 via a flotation gas inlet. In other example embodiments, wherein the flotation gas supply device is configured to supply flotation gas into the volume of slurry 1001 below the slurry supply device, the flotation gas supply device may be configured to supply the flotation gas below the slurry supply device in any suitable manner, such as by supplying the flotation gas into the volume of slurry via a flotation gas inlet.

[0194] Throughout this specification, an "inlet" may refer to an entry device 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 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 through the side wall of the tank.

[0195] In this specification, a "flotation gas inlet" may refer to an inlet configured or adapted to allow flotation gas to enter the tank.

[0196] The flotation gas inlet may be arranged below the slurry supply 1200. In other embodiments, the flotation gas inlet and slurry supply may be arranged in any suitable manner, for example, such that the flotation gas inlet is arranged below the slurry supply.

[0197] The tank 1100 may include a flotation liquid inlet. In other embodiments, the tank may or may not include such a flotation liquid inlet.

[0198] As used herein, a "flotation liquid inlet" may refer to an inlet configured or adapted to allow flotation liquid to enter the tank.

[0199] The flotation liquid inlet of this embodiment is arranged below the slurry supply 1200. In other embodiments, the flotation liquid inlet may be arranged in any suitable manner, for example, below the slurry supply.

[0200] According to an example embodiment, the flotation cell 1000 includes a flotation liquid supply configured to supply flotation liquid to a volume of slurry 1001 below the slurry supply 1200. Configuring the flotation liquid supply in this manner may generally help maintain an upwardly directed flow, which may help direct slurry discharged through the gap in a downward lateral direction and / or increase the likelihood that particles containing valuable material will be recollected in the froth layer after falling.

[0201] Figure 1 The tank 1100 of the example embodiment includes an underflow outlet 1104 for discharging an underflow 1105 from a volume of slurry 1001 .

[0202] Throughout the specification, "underflow" may refer to a coarse slurry, which includes 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, a coarse slurry may refer to a slurry having a particle size distribution of less than 80% at a sieve size of 3000 μm, or at a sieve size of 425 μm, or at a sieve size of 355 μm, or at a sieve size of 250 μm, or at a sieve size of 180 μm, or at a sieve size of 150 μm, or at a sieve size of 125 μm, or at a sieve size of 105 μm.

[0203] On the other hand, an "outlet" may refer to a device for discharging a fluid, such as an opening or a through-hole. Generally, the outlet 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 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 through the side wall of the tank.

[0204] Thus, an "underflow outlet" may refer to an outlet configured or adapted to discharge a coarse slurry from a tank. The underflow outlet may also be configured or adapted to discharge any other suitable type of slurry from a tank. Typically, the underflow outlet is disposed at a lower section of a tank for collecting flotation product from the tank.

[0205] The tank may include a bottom cone that tapers downwardly. Typically, a tank including a bottom cone can reduce sanding in the tank. In other embodiments, the tank may or may not include such a bottom cone.

[0206] 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 direct settled solid particles towards an outlet or an inlet.

[0207] The tank may include a flat bottom, a side wall extending from the bottom, and an underflow outlet arranged at the side wall.

[0208] The main structural aspects of a flotation cell have been discussed above. Below, more emphasis will be placed on aspects related to the flotation method. The above description of the embodiments, definitions, details, and advantages related to the flotation cell applies mutatis mutandis to the method discussed below, and vice versa.

[0209] In particular, it should 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.

[0210] Figure 5 An example of a method for treating particles suspended in slurry 1214 in flotation cell 1000 is shown.

[0211] In operation 100 , the method may include providing a tank 1100 for containing a volume of slurry 1001 and a foam layer 1002 above the volume of slurry 1001 .

[0212] In operation 110 , the method may include supplying slurry 1214 to a supply chamber 1201 via a slurry supply apparatus 1200 including one or more slurry supply devices 1202 .

[0213] In operation 120 , the method may include receiving slurry 1214 from one or more slurry feeds 1202 via a feed chamber 1201 .

[0214] At operation 130 , the method may include directing 130 the supplied slurry 1214 from the supply chamber 1201 to the foam layer 1002 via an overflow ramp 1205 between the supply chamber 1201 and the tank 1100 .

[0215] At operation 140 , the method may include supplying bubbles 1204 into the supplied slurry 1214 via one or more bubble devices 1203 before the supplied slurry 1214 enters the foam layer 1002 .

[0216] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that, as technology advances, the basic idea of ​​the invention can be implemented in various ways. Therefore, the invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above, but they can be varied within the scope of the claims.

[0217] 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 those that solve any or all of the problems described or those that have any or all of the benefits and advantages described.

[0218] The term "comprising" is used in this specification to mean including the features or actions that follow, but does not exclude the existence of one or more additional features or actions. It will be further understood that reference to "an" item refers to one or more of those items.

Claims

1. A slurry supply device configured to supply slurry to a foam layer, characterized in that: The slurry supply device includes: one or more slurry supply devices configured to supply slurry; a supply chamber configured to receive a supply of slurry from the one or more slurry supply devices; and An overflow slope is located between the supply chamber and the foam layer, and is configured to guide the supplied slurry from the supply chamber to the foam layer.

2. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A feed device connector is included that is connectable to the one or more slurry feed devices, the feed chamber is positioned below the feed device connector and is arranged to receive a supply of slurry from the one or more slurry feed devices.

3. The slurry supply device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The feed device connector comprises a top plate having one or more feed openings through which the feed slurry is arranged to enter the feed chamber and / or compartment.

4. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supply chamber includes: a supply chamber bottom and a slurry overflow lip located above the supply chamber bottom; and an overflow slope extending obliquely downward from the slurry overflow lip, wherein the supplied slurry is configured to flow from the supply chamber through the slurry overflow lip to the overflow slope during operation of the slurry supply device.

5. The slurry supply device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The feed chamber is annular, and the slurry overflow lip is arranged on a periphery of the feed chamber.

6. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supply chamber is divided into one or more separate compartments by one or more dividing walls.

7. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overflow slope is arranged at an angle of 10 to 60 degrees to the horizontal plane.

8. The slurry supply device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The slurry overflow lip is annular, and the overflow slope surrounds the slurry overflow lip.

9. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slurry supply device comprises supply belts which extend from the lower edge of the overflow ramp and are arranged at a distance from one another in the direction of the lower edge.

10. The slurry supply device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The ends of the feed strips are connected to the lower edge of the overflow ramp, and the feed strips taper towards their second ends.

11. The slurry supply device according to claim 9, characterized in that: The feed belt is triangular in shape.

12. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slurry feeding device comprises one or more downwardly inclined guide plates, which are placed below the lower edge of the overflow ramp and / or the feeding belt.

13. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more slurry feed devices are configured to feed slurry by gravity.

14. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The supply chamber is configured to operate at atmospheric pressure.

15. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slurry supply device further comprises at least one air bubble device configured to supply air bubbles into the supply chamber and / or onto the overflow ramp.

16. The slurry supply device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The at least one bubble arrangement comprises one or more gas supply devices configured to supply gas bubbles into the supply chamber and / or onto the overflow ramp.

17. The slurry supply device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The one or more gas supply devices are configured to supply gas bubbles into the supply chamber through the ceiling, the supply chamber bottom and / or one or more supply chamber sidewalls.

18. The slurry supply device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The at least one gas bubble device is configured to supply gas bubbles on the overflow slope, wherein the one or more gas supply devices are arranged to provide gas bubbles over a width of the overflow slope perpendicular to the slurry flow.

19. The slurry supply device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The overflow ramp comprises a ramp bottom, wherein the air bubble device is configured to supply air bubbles on the overflow ramp at a distance from a lower edge of the overflow ramp.

20. The slurry supply device according to claim 19, wherein: The slope bottom has at least one of the following forms: curved, stepped and / or corrugated.

21. The slurry supply device according to claim 16, characterized in that: Each of the one or more gas supply devices comprises one or more nozzles or outlets.

22. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The overflow slope includes a slope surface, a slope bottom and a weir, wherein, The sloped surface is arranged toward the foam layer; The ramp surface is configured to slope downwardly toward the foam layer and toward the ramp bottom; and The slope surface is configured to rise from the slope bottom toward the weir.

23. The slurry supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slurry supply device includes 1 to 512 slurry supply devices.

24. A flotation cell for treating particles suspended in a slurry, characterized in that The flotation cell comprises: a tank for containing a volume of slurry and a foam layer above the volume of slurry; and The slurry supply device according to claim 1.

25. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The feed chamber has an annular or circular shape and is arranged concentrically with the tank side wall.

26. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The one or more slurry feed devices are arranged concentrically with a tank sidewall of the flotation cell.

27. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The one or more slurry feed devices are arranged above the foam layer.

28. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The slurry supply device is configured to supply slurry onto the foam layer, into the foam layer, into a foam-slurry interface, and / or directly below the foam layer.

29. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The flotation cell also includes a launder having a launder lip for collecting froth from the froth layer.

30. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The flotation cell further comprises one or more froth crowders arranged to direct froth towards the launder.

31. The flotation cell according to claim 24, wherein The flotation cell comprises a flotation gas supply device for supplying flotation gas into the volume of slurry below the slurry supply device.

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