Froth washing apparatus for inflatable flotation machine froth crowders

Abstract

Means (102) for cleaning froth (9) in a flotation machine (1) are disclosed. The means (102) may be integrally, or separately provided to an inflatable froth crowder apparatus (100) or to another component (2, 4, 100) of a flotation machine (1), such as to a froth crowder (7) or upper inner rim of a tank (2), without limitation. A method for cleaning froth (9) during a process of flotation using a flotation machine (1), using the novel means (102) for cleaning froth (9), is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] Froth Washing Apparatus for Rigid and Inflatable Flotation Machine Froth Crowders

[0002] Cross-reference to Related Applications

[0003] Reference is made to Applicant's co-pending PCT / IB2023 / 053301 filed April 1, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, for any and all purposes, as if fully set forth herein.

[0004] Field of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of the invention relate to froth washing apparatus 102 which may be configured for use with (and / or attachment to) conventional rigid froth crowder assemblies for flotation cells, as well as inflatable froth crowder apparatus. Embodiments of the froth washing apparatus may be configured for use with naturally-aspirated (i.e., "self-aspirated" or "induced-air"), and / or "forced-air" flotation cells, without limitation. Embodiments may be adequately configured for easy installation onto (e.g., retrofitting of) froth crowder apparatus for improving grade of mineral recovery when employed and used in flotation processes.

[0006] The froth washing apparatus 102 may be applied to other structures of a flotation cell, including, but not limited to portions of a tank 2 wall, stator or disperser 3, disperser hood 4, adjacent underside portions of a radial launder 6, adjacent portions of a circumferentially- peripheral launder 6, and / or adjacent portions of a central annular or "doughnut" launder

[0007] 6, for example, adjacent a weir lip of the same, without limitation. In some embodiments, the froth washing apparatus 102 may be integrally formed with inflatable froth crowder assemblies 100. The froth washing apparatus 102 structures may be configured to be modular, or multi-part assemblies that can be separately and / or independently attached to internal components of a flotation cell, in any number or desired configuration, without limitation.

[0008] Background of the Invention

[0009] Flotation cells receive slurry containing ore particles. Some of the ore particles having a target mineral therein, and others contain unwanted gangue. Reagents (e.g., collectors / float- promotors, frothers, depressors / depressants, activators, pH regulators, sulphidizers) are generally used to improve and / or optimize flotation of such ore particles, for example, to float or inhibit flotation of the ore particles containing the target mineral therein. Conventional and "reverse" flotation practices are common. Reverse flotation involves suppressing particles of target composition and floating unwanted gangue.

[0010] To this end, there are several different types of flotation machines. Flotation column cells and those flotation machines which employ spargers or inverted fluidized beds (e.g., W02011150455A1); those that use forced air introduced under pressure through a shaft and through a rotor surface (e.g., FLSmidth® Dorr-Oliver® flotation cells), and those which natu rally-aspirate (e.g., FLSmidth® Wemco® flotation cells). Hybrids, such as the EXCEL™ exist as well. Embodiments of the invention may conveniently exhibit industrial applicability with one, some, or all of these types of flotation cells using different configurations.

[0011] Flotation cells typically comprise a froth crowder assembly to help direct and encourage froth towards one or more upper froth collection launders provided to the flotation machine. Target particles in an infeed slurry are treated with a reagent, making them hydro- phobic. The slurry is aerated with liquid in within the flotation machine by virtue of delivering air through spargers, or mechanically, via a spinning rotor. For the latter mechanical mechanism of aeration, the spinning rotor is typically disposed within close proximity to a surrounding disperser or stator or disperser structure to induce shear to the slurry-liquid (i.e., "pulp") mixture and create air bubbles in the flotation machine tank.

[0012] The hydrophobic target particles attach themselves to the bubbles, and the bubbles lift the attached target particles towards the upper end of the flotation machine. Eventually, the bubbles (and the target particles attached thereto) make their way into one or more upper froth collection launders. In this regard, the target particles can be separated from gangue (which typically leaves the flotation machine through a lower outlet of the flotation machine). In reverse flotation processes, the gangue (underflow) may be considered to be the target or desired mineral specie, and the froth (overflow) may be considered to be the gangue. In some instances, launders may circumferentially surround an outer peripheral portion of the flotation machine tank. An inner "doughnut" launder may be disposed radially-inwardly of an outer peripheral wall of the flotation machine tank. Radially-extending launders may be employed (e.g., extending radially inwardly from an outer tank wall, extending radially inwardly from an outer circumferential / peripheral launder, extending radially outwardly from an inner doughnut launder, and / or extending radially between inner and outer launders) in order to increase launder surface area or total spill lip / weir length across the flotation machine tank and facilitate egress of froth collected at the top of the flotation machine. Various types of launder designs and configurations have been practiced to date.

[0013] Froth crowders are typically employed to flotation machines in various configurations to help direct and bias flows of froth (containing bubbles and target particles attached thereto) towards one or more froth collection launders. These froth crowders may take on many shapes and configurations. To this end, froth crowders have been constructed of steel plate, making them bulky, heavy, and expensive to machine and fabricate. Because of their solid and bulky nature, installation / removal of traditional froth crowders around existing flotation machine structures can be difficult, and fine-tuned adjustments of the positioning of the froth crowders can be challenging. Moreover, access to lower portions of the flotation machine and internals may be hindered by rigidly connected or "bolted on" or "welded on" froth crowder structures. Steel frame structures, bridges, walkways, and other mechanisms may hinder installation and / or removal of such froth crowders. The Applicant has recently brought forth an inventive inflatable froth crowder concept which improves upon traditional froth crowder devices. Such inflatable froth crowder devices are configured to be easier and / or cheaper to manufacture, transport, service, adjust, and / or install. Examples of such froth crowders may be seen in Applicant's co-pending PCT / IB2023 / 053301 filed April 1, 2023.

[0014] Moreover, another problem with conventional froth rinsing / cleaning systems for flotation machines, is that they are generally positioned a distance above a froth / atmosphere interface. Typically, a sprayer or other irrigation device, which is suspended well above a froth layer forming on top of the upper portion of the flotation machine tank, emits wash water above the froth layer to clean the froth. The cleaning water falls upon the froth layer by gravity or hydraulic pressure. Impacts from droplets falling into the froth bed from above can compromise froth bubbles (e.g., change movement of bubbles, push down bubbles, or break bubbles), leading to particles detachments and target minerals becoming dislodged from air entrainment in the froth recovery phase. Use of such conventional froth washing systems can, thus, increase chances that target particles re-enter the slurry phase and short-circuit the launder, affecting recovery and efficiency of the flotation machine.

[0015] Objects of the Invention

[0016] According to some embodiments, it is desired to improve upon Applicant's inflatable froth crowder concepts disclosed in Applicant's co-pending International Application Ser. No. PCT / IB2023 / 053301, by providing integral or attachable froth washing / rinsing means 102 thereto. According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide a froth washing apparatus or means for washing froth 102 which is configured to be easily attached to any surface of a flotation cell (e.g., to a froth crowder device).

[0017] According to some embodiments, it is desired to provide an apparatus 102 which is configured to provide better (e.g., softer) froth washing / rinsing of froth from within the froth layer, within or adjacent the froth / pulp interface, and / or just below the froth / pulp interface for improved grade, recovery and / or flotation efficiency, without compromising bubble particle attachments.

[0018] These and other objects of the present invention will be apparent from the drawings and description herein. Although every object of the invention is believed to be attained by at least one embodiment of the invention, there is not necessarily any one single embodiment of the invention that achieves all of the objects of the invention.

[0019] Brief Summary of the Invention

[0020] An inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) is disclosed. The inflatable froth crowder (100) may be configured for directing froth forming within a flotation machine tank (2) to a launder (6) of a flotation machine (1). The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) may comprise an inflatable body. The inflatable body may have an undersurface and / or side surface which is configured for directing flows of froth (9) from within the flotation machine tank (2) towards the launder (6).

[0021] The inflatable body may comprise at least one chamber therein for receiving a gas. The inflatable body may be formed from a membrane. The membrane may be formed of a single material; or, the membrane may comprise a composite material, such as a layered composite structure. The membrane may include materials including, but not limited to, a flexible or resilient material, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), natural or synthetic rubber, neoprene, and / or a lining material having low vapor or gas permeability and high chemical resistance, without limitation. The membrane may comprise protective coatings or structures for improved robustness, rigidity and / or wear or UV resistance, without limitation.

[0022] Inflation means (101) may be provided to a portion of the inflatable body. The inflation means (101) may be configured for allowing ingress and egress of a gas to the at least one chamber.

[0023] Froth washing means (102) may be provided to a portion of the inflatable body, such as to an undersurface and / or one or more side surface portions of the inflatable froth crowder assembly (100). The froth washing means (102) may comprise a porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111). The porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may be configured for delivering washing fluid (110) therefrom, for example, to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmosphere interface (10) within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1).

[0024] The froth washing means (102) may comprise means for receiving washing fluid (103).

[0025] The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) may comprise means (105) for securing the froth crowder assembly (100) to another component (2, 7) of the flotation machine (1).

[0026] In some embodiments, the inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) may comprise an inner cutout portion (104). The inner cutout portion (104) may be configured to allow for clearance of a standpipe (7) and / or other components (3, 4) within the flotation machine (1).

[0027] In some embodiments, the froth washing means (102) may comprise integral froth washing means which is inseparably integrated with the inflatable body. For example, the froth washing means (102) may comprises a body (112) which may at least partially comprise a membrane. The membrane of the froth washing means (102) may be seamed to or share a seam with the membrane of the inflatable body, without limitation.

[0028] In some embodiments, the froth washing means (102) may comprise separate froth washing means which is releasably affixed to or releasably integrated with the inflatable body. For example, the froth washing means (102) may be attached thereto (i.e., to the inflatable body) with means for securing (109) the separate froth washing means (102) to the inflatable body. In some embodiments, the froth washing means (102) may be configured to provide a functionally-graded or non-uniform distribution (106) of washing fluid (110) in at least one direction along a surface thereof.

[0029] In some embodiments, the froth washing means (102) may be provided to at least an outer portion of the inflatable body and / or may be configured to provide a higher fluid flux or a more concentrated distribution of washing fluid (110) adjacent to the launder (6) of the flotation machine (1).

[0030] A froth washing apparatus (102) is further disclosed. The froth washing apparatus (102) may be configured to be separately and / or independently attached to a component (2, 4, 100) of a of a flotation machine (1). The froth washing apparatus (102) may be configured to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmosphere interface (10), for example, within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1). The froth washing apparatus (102) may comprise a body (112).

[0031] The body (112) may comprise a porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111). The porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111) may be configured to emit washing fluid (110) from the body (112). The porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may be provided to at least a portion of the body (112). The froth washing apparatus (102) may comprise means (103) for receiving washing fluid (110). The means (103) for receiving washing fluid (110) may fluidly communicate with the body (112). The means (103) for receiving washing fluid (110) may be configured for supplying washing fluid (110) which is eventually emitted through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) to clean froth (9).

[0032] The froth washing apparatus (102) may comprise means (109) for securing the body (112) to a component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1). In some embodiments, the means (109) for securing comprises an adhesive, a hook and loop fastener, a fastener, a grommet, a tether, a first portion of a fastening device which is configured to be engaged with a second portion of said fastening device provided to the component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1), or a holding element provided to the component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1) which is configured to receive at least a portion of the body (112) of the froth washing apparatus (102). The means (109) for securing the body (112) to a component component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1) may be configured to enable the froth washing apparatus (102) to be attached to a surface portion of an inflatable froth crowder apparatus (100), without limitation. The means (109) for securing the body (112) to a component component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1) may be configured to enable the froth washing apparatus (102) to be attached to a surface portion of a standpipe (7) and / or froth crowder(4), without limitation. In some embodiments, the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) is configured to provide a functionally-graded or non-uniform distribution (106) of washing fluid (110) in at least one direction along a surface thereof (e.g., as depicted in FIGS. 17-20).

[0033] In some embodiments, the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may be provided at a radially outer (e.g., circumferential or peripheral) portion of the component (2, 4, 100) and / or may be configured to provide a higher fluid flux or more concentrated distribution of washing fluid (110) adjacent to a launder (6) of the flotation machine (1).

[0034] A method of cleaning froth (9) during a process of flotation using a flotation machine (1) is further disclosed. According to some embodiments, the method may comprise the step of providing an apparatus (100, 102) as described above. The method may comprise the step of introducing washing fluid (110) through said means for receiving washing fluid (103). The method may comprise the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmos- phere interface (10) within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1).

[0035] In some embodiments, the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may comprise distributing the washing fluid (110) uniformly through and / or across the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111).

[0036] In some embodiments, the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may comprise distributing the washing fluid (110) non-uniformly through and / or across the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111).

[0037] In some embodiments, the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) may comprise distributing a higher flux of the washing fluid (110) at portions of the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111) which are provided closer the launder (6) of the flotation machine (1).

[0038] Description of the Drawings

[0039] To complement the description which is being made, and for the purpose of aiding to better understand the features of the invention, a set of drawings illustrating preferred, non-limiting embodiments of an improved froth washing apparatus 102 and components thereof for use in flotation machines is attached to the present specification as an integral part thereof, in which the following has been depicted with an illustrative and non-limiting character. It should be understood that like reference numbers used in the drawings. FIG. 1 depicts a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a flotation machine 1 (shown in a cross-sectional side plan view), which comprises an inflatable froth crowder component 100 comprising an inflatable body component constructed from a membrane and having means for inflation 101 (e.g., fill tube, valve, and / or the like), and a second component comprising means 102 for washing froth 9. The means 102 for washing froth 9 may be integrally provided to the inflatable body of the froth crowder 100 and may be configured to be separable or inseparable from the inflatable body.

[0040] The means 102 for washing froth 9 may be configured to release wash water 110 therefrom. The inflatable froth crowder component 100 may further comprise means 105 for connecting the inflatable froth crowder 100 to a second component 2, 4, 7 within the flotation machine 1. The inflatable froth crowder 100 may be constructed with various shapes (e.g., preferred profile, underbody geometry) for different flotation machine designs, and may include an inner cutout portion 104 for clearance of a standpipe 7 or other components 3, 4 within the flotation cell 1. The inflatable body component may optionally comprise one or more internal baffles 107, and the means for washing froth 102 may comprise means 103 for receiving a washing fluid.

[0041] FIG. 2 shows an alternative isometric view of the flotation machine 1 depicted in FIG. 1.

[0042] FIG. 3 suggests a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 which is depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 depicts a front side plan view of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 3.

[0043] FIGS. 5-7 show non-limiting alternative embodiments of an inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 having means 102 for washing or rinsing froth 9. The embodiments shown in each figure depict one-quarter (1 / 4) sections of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. Each of FIGS. 5-7 suggests alternative configurations, placements, locations, and / or arrangements of froth washing means 102 in relation to an inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100. In each embodiment, the froth washing means 102 may be made inseparably integral with the inflatable body of the froth crowder apparatus 100; or, the froth washing means 102 may be made separable from (i.e., modular, attachable / detachable in relation to) the inflatable body of the froth crowder apparatus 100, without limitation.

[0044] FIGS. 8 and 9 show yet another embodiment of an inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 configured with onboard froth washing means 102.

[0045] FIGS. 10-12 suggest yet another embodiment of an inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 configured with onboard froth washing means 102. In particular, the embodiment depicted is best configured for use with flotation machines 1 having one or more radially-extending launders 6. FIGS. 13 and 14 suggest an embodiment showing one embodiment of an apparatus 102 for washing or cleaning froth 9 which may be used with a non-inflatable component of a flotation machine 1, such as a rigid froth crowder 4. The apparatus 102 may be retrofitted into an existing brownfield installation of a flotation machine 1 and attached to one or more components 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 therein using means 105, 109 for securing, without limitation.

[0046] FIG. 15 shows an embodiment involving smaller apparatus 102 for washing or cleaning froth 9, which may be employed in a plurality to provide a system of froth washing or cleaning apparatus 102. The particular securing means 105 depicted in FIG. 15 differs from the means 109 used in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14.

[0047] FIG. 16 shows alternative securing means 109 for at least temporarily holding the froth washing or cleaning apparatus 102 to a component 2, 3, 4, 7 of a flotation machine 1. In particular, a holding element serving as a receiving portion is depicted. The holding element may be a portion of a tab, a lip, a flange, a slot, or channel configured to receive or contain one or more apparatus 102.

[0048] FIGS. 17-20 depict different configurations of a porous, reticulated, or perforated surface or structure 111 which may be provided to means 102 for washing, cleaning, and / or rinsing froth 9. FIGS. 17 and 19 suggest embodiments which provide a somewhat uniform distribution or consistent fluid flux of washing fluid 110 through and / or across a porous, reticulated, or perforated surface.

[0049] FIGS. 18 and 20 suggest embodiments which provide a substantially non-uniform distribution or non-constant fluid flux through and / or across the porous, reticulated, or perforated surface or structure 111. This non-uniform distribution may provide a functionally-graded distribution 106 wherein more cleaning fluid 110 is used most proximate a launder 6. For example, the porous, reticulated, or perforated surface or structure 111 may comprise closer spacings of openings or larger openings for providing greater fluid distribution in a region which is most adjacent to where the froth 9 is carried over to the launder 6 and / or removed from tank 2.

[0050] In the following, the invention will be described in more detail with reference to drawings in conjunction with exemplary embodiments.

[0051] Detailed Description

[0052] A novel inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 for a flotation machine 1 is disclosed. The inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may be configured for being placed within a flotation machine tank 2. The inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise means 102 for washing, cleaning, and or rinsing froth 9 within a tank 2. This froth may form above a slurry phase 8 in the tank 2. A froth / atmosphere interface 10 may exist at the top of the froth 9 layer, and a pulp / froth interface 11 may exist between the froth 9 and the slurry phase 8. Preferably, the means 102 for washing, cleaning, and or rinsing froth 9 is configured for distributing washing fluid 110 to the froth 9 below the froth / atmosphere interface 10 and within the froth 9 and / or pulp / froth interface 11, and even some upper regions of the slurry phase 8.

[0053] A novel apparatus 102 for washing, cleaning, and or rinsing froth 9 within a tank 2 is also disclosed. This apparatus 102 may be separately provided to an inflatable froth crowder device 100 or any other component within a flotation machine 1. Preferably, the apparatus 102 is provided to a froth crowder 4, but it is envisaged that the same may be provided to other components 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 112, without limitation. The apparatus 102 for washing, cleaning, and or rinsing froth 9 may be configured for being placed within a flotation machine 1, such as within a tank 2 thereof. Preferably, the means 102 for washing, cleaning, and or rinsing froth 9 is configured for distributing washing fluid 110 to the froth 9 below the froth / atmosphere interface 10 and within the froth 9 and / or pulp / froth interface 11, and even some upper regions of the slurry phase 8.

[0054] The inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise an assembly, for example, a first component of the assembly comprising an inflatable body, and a second component of the assembly comprising froth washing means 102. The froth washing means 102 may be provided in multiple components and / or one or more apparatus 102 for washing, cleaning, or rinsing froth 9 may be provided within a flotation machine 1.

[0055] Securing means 105 may be provided to the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 and / or to the froth washing means 102. In some embodiments, the inflatable body component of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 or the froth washing apparatus 102 may comprise at least one first component of securing means 105, and another component of the flotation machine may comprise at least one second component of the securing means. Securing means 105 may comprise tethering means, such as a D-ring, grommet, integral tether, connector, or the like, or it may comprise a fastener (or portion thereof) or holding member (or portion thereof). Securing means 105 may comprise eyebolts, affixed / welded ring segments, through holes, and other known or conventional mechanical means for attaching, without limitation. Securing means 105 may comprise turnbuckles, adjustable fasteners, or the like to provide adjustability in locating apparatus 100, 102 described herein.

[0056] A portion of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise an inner cutout portion 104 for providing clearance of components 3, 4, 7 of the flotation machine 1 as depicted.

[0057] An inflatable body portion of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 or an internal bladder chamber 113 portion of the froth washing apparatus 102 may comprise one or more internal bladders or chambers formed from a flexible membrane material (e.g., glued or welded PVC sheets, without limitation). The one or more internal bladders or chambers may be defined by one or more webs 107 and an outer skin layer (as depicted in FIG. 8). In some embodiments, the one or more internal bladders or chambers may be separate chambers provided within the outer skin layer of the inflatable body (and / or of body 112 of the froth washing means 102). The one or more webs 107 may be formed from flexible or rigid members which may serve to fluidly isolate each internal bladder / chamber, help provide structural integrity of the apparatus 100, 102, and / or provide better distribution or routing of washing fluids 110. It is preferred that the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 maintains its structural integrity and desired three-dimensional shape when inflated. It is preferred that the froth washing apparatus 102 is thin and maintains an ability to provide washing water 110 from its fluid receiving means 103 to froth 9.

[0058] To facilitate inflating and deflating of the inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100, one or more valves 108 may be provided thereto. The valve(s) 108 may be configured and / or positioned in such a way that easy access remains available after installation into a flotation machine 1. Preferably, the valve(s) 108 are provided to a location which is not hindered by the tank 2. Preferably, the valve(s) 108 are provided to a location which is not subjected to abrasion, wear, froth, or slurry, such as at a high point or an upper or side surface which is accessible by personnel. A valve 108 provided to the inflatable body may comprise a "deflate only" valve, an "inflate only" valve, or an "inflate & deflate" (i.e., 2- way) valve, or "blow-off" valve, without limitation. Valves 108, where employed may be operatively coupled to and / or fluidly communicate with means for inflation and / or deflation 101, which may comprise one or more inflation tubes 101. A valve 108 may comprise an over pressurization valve, without limitation. A valve 108 may be provided 'in-line' (i.e., provided in series) between two components of an inflation tube, without limitation.

[0059] While one or more traditional valves may be employed to fill and / or deflate the inflatable body (i.e., where the inflatable body is filled and then capped after installation), it may be desirable to control inflation / deflation online, for example, using a distributed control system (DCS). In such cases, a holding tank which is configured to hold pressurized gas such as nitrogen or air may communicate with an air distribution manifold feeding the inflatable body. The air distribution manifold may fluidly communicate with one or more inflation tubes 7. Each inflation tube 7 may fluidly communicate with one or more respective internal chambers within the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100.

[0060] An overpressure valve 108, such as a blow-off valve, a regulator, control valve, or other means for preventing over-pressurization of the one or more internal chambers of the inflatable body and / or to a chamber 113 of the froth washing means 102 may be provided to the inflatable froth crowder 100, without limitation.

[0061] The inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise an inner profile 104 which preferably complements inner structural geometries or inner surfaces of components of the flotation machine 1. The inner profile 104 may comprise a portion of a central opening. The inner profile 104 may comprise an arcuate concave surface for providing clearance for a centrally disposed standpipe 7, as depicted in FIG. 2. The inflatable body may further comprise an outer profile which preferably complements outer peripheral structural geometries or surfaces of components of the flotation machine 1, for example of those components which are provided along outer portions of the floatation machine 1. For example, the outer profile of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may be configured to be positioned within the confines of and / or adjacent to an inner surface of a wall of a tank 2 or launder 6 of the flotation machine 1, without limitation.

[0062] In addition to inner and outer profiles, the inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise an upper surface and an under surface. The upper and / or under surfaces may take on various shapes including shapes which are different than shown in the figures. It is preferred that the under-surface geometry be optimized for most efficiently directing froth from the flotation machine tank 2 to one or more launders 6 provided to the flotation machine 1. The under surface may represent a similar shape and / or configuration to its prior art conventional steel counterparts, without limitation. The under surface may comprise one or more layers of film for improved chemical-inertness and or sacrificial wear protection. The film may be fabricated as a removable / replaceable sheet laminate applied to the under surface; or, the film may be provided as a spray coating film or under surface treatment to protect the inflatable body from abrasion and / or chemical degradation. For areas of potential rubbing, extra layers of material may be provided to the inflatable body. For example, surfaces along the inner profile 104 may comprise wear layers (e.g., neoprene sheet) to prevent damage to the inflatable body caused by rubbing against the standpipe 7. Other reinforced portions may be provided to portions of the inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100. These other reinforced portions may include, for example, a patch, strip, or additional layer of membrane material, without limitation. The reinforced portions may be provided at high wear regions or areas where higher stresses may be applied to the inflatable body (e.g., adjacent securing means 105). For example, one or more reinforced portions may be provided at internal and / or external corner portions of the inflatable body, or at areas where rubbing or stresses to the inflatable body might be anticipated.

[0063] The securing means 105 provided to the inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 may comprise a D-ring, grommet, strap (with optional tensioning buckle, or the like which is permanently secured to an outer surface portion of the inflatable membrane. An integral web of material may be provided between the body and the securing means 105. Such an arrangement may be similar to those commonly found on an inflatable raft or dingy. The integral web may be plastic welded, ultrasonically welded, chemically bonded / adhered, and / or seam-stitched to the inflatable body and sealed with a seam sealing glue or sealant, without limitation. One or more reinforcing portions may be provided adjacent the securing means 105.

[0064] Accordingly, in any of the embodiments a tethering means may be provided as the securing means 105. The tethering means may be provided to one or more portions of the apparatus 100, 102 described herein. The tethering means may be used to couple the apparatus 100, 102 to another component 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 100 within the flotation machine 1 to secure them to each other. Tethering means may be configured to be adjusted to effect proper relative positioning of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 and / or froth washing means (102) within the flotation machine 1. Tethering means may comprise one or more components which may be similar in construction, identical in construction, different in configuration, or which may share certain technical features, without limitation. Tethering means may be applied to and / or configured to communicate with other components 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 100 of a flotation machine 1, such as a standpipe 7, launder 6, beam support 12 or other structure thereof, without limitation.

[0065] In some embodiments the inflatable body may comprise a first internal chamber configured for receiving a gaseous fluid, such as air, and a second (lower) internal chamber configured for receiving a liquid fluid for washing froth. The inflatable body is preferably configured to hold the gas at a pressure above ambient, e.g., between 3 and 12 psi, and up to 25 psi, without limitation. The reservoir for holding liquid may be perforated or porous on one or more portions to enable a distribution of washing fluid 110.

[0066] In some embodiments, the inflatable body may comprise a plurality of internal chambers configured for receiving a gas, such as air. The plurality of chambers may be at least partially defined by one or more internal webs or baffle structures 107, without limitation. The webs 107 may be flexible, semi-flexible, or rigid, without limitation. In some instances, one or more webs 107 may extend between the upper and under surfaces or between inner and outer profiles (e.g., within one or more chambers), and may be configured to serve as means of providing supplemental rigidity, strength, and shape-holding ability to the inflatable body during / after inflation. In some embodiments, separate internal bladders may be provided within an outer skin layer of the inflatable body to define the one or more internal chambers, without limitation.

[0067] Means for receiving and / or securing ballast to one or more portions of the inflatable body may be provided to any of the depicted and described embodiments, without limitation. Such means may include, for example, one or more pockets or compartments for receiving ballast in the form of weights. The weights may comprise shot, lead weights, steel or lead ingots, or the like. It is anticipated that other means for receiving ballast may include straps, clips, or belts for securing ballast to the inflatable body. Even more alternatively, one or more vertically extending posts may extend upwardly from the upper surface of the inflatable body for receiving one or more doughnut-shaped weights and the same employed for receiving / securing ballast, without limitation. The means for receiving and / or securing ballast may be provided to the upper surface for maximum accessibility; or, the means for receiving and / or securing ballast may be provided to other portions (e.g., to under surface, inner profile 104, outer profile, or to securing means 105), without limitation.

[0068] Accordingly, it is contemplated that weights may be optionally inserted into pockets integrally provided to apparatus 100, 102 described herein, may be employed. Weights could be clipped, adhered, received by, or alternatively fastened to independent portions of apparatus 100, 102 described herein, without limitation. Weights may be provided internally within a body (e.g., sewn or glued into internal or external pockets provided within and / or on the inflatable body of the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 or the body 112 or chamber 113 of the froth washing apparatus 102). Weights may be provided as sand, gravel, or steel / lead shot, or blocks of dense material which is provided to one or more portions of the apparatus 100, 102 described herein, without limitation.

[0069] As can be appreciated from the figures, ballast may comprise a liquid ballast, such as process water or washing fluid 110, and said means for receiving and / or securing ballast may include a ballast bladder / chamber provided to an internal or external portion of the inflatable body. The ballast bladder / chamber may be dually configured for use as a froth washing apparatus 102 or means for washing, cleaning, and / or rinsing froth 9. The ballast bladder / chamber may also be provided separately from the froth washing means 102, without limitation. In such embodiments incorporating the use of a liquid ballast, the ballast bladder / chamber may be operably connected to and / or fluidly communicate with a liquid ballast holding tank (not shown). A hydraulic inlet valve may be placed on an inlet line connecting the ballast bladder / chamber to the liquid ballast holding tank to allow fluid to enter the ballast bladder / chamber in a controllable manner. A hydraulic purge pump may be provided to an exhaust line fluidly communicating with the ballast bladder / chamber to remove liquid ballast from the ballast bladder / chamber. Alternatively, a volume of the froth washing apparatus 102 or means for washing, cleaning, and / or rinsing froth 9 in relation to a volume of the inflatable body may be predetermined such that the froth washing apparatus 102 or means for washing, cleaning, and / or rinsing froth 9 is configured to provide a sufficient amount of ballast for the inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 during use.

[0070] Accordingly, apparatus 100, 102 described herein (in particular, inflatable bodies) may be optionally equipped with a chamber configured to be used as a ballast bladder. Accompanying means for receiving and / or removing liquid ballast from the ballast chamber of one or more inflatable bodies may be provided to the apparatus 100, 102. The independent control of buoyancy, displacement, and / or inflatable body location / orientation within the tank 2 during flotation machine 1 operation is anticipated, and it is envisaged that froth washing means 102 may be dually utilized as a ballast bladder to control buoyancy of an inflatable froth crowder 100 to which it is provided, without limitation.

[0071] It should be known that the specific features, functions, process steps, and possible benefits shown and described herein in detail are purely exemplary in nature and should not limit the spirit and / or scope of the invention.

[0072] Moreover, although the invention has been described in terms of particular embodiments and applications, one of ordinary skill in the art, in light of these teachings, can generate additional embodiments and modifications without departing from the spirit of the claimed invention. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the drawings and descriptions herein are proffered by way of example to facilitate comprehension of the invention and should not be construed to limit the scope thereof.

[0073] Listing of Reference Numerals

[0074] 1 Flotation machine

[0075] 2 Tank (of flotation machine 1)

[0076] 3 Stator / disperser

[0077] 4 Disperser hood (if flotation machine 1 is self-aspirating)

[0078] 5 Drive (for rotating shaft and impeller, which are not shown)

[0079] 6 One or more launders

[0080] 7 Standpipe

[0081] 8 Slurry phase (e.g., pulp, slurry, process feed)

[0082] 9 Froth phase (e.g., froth, froth layer, aerated mineral)

[0083] 10 Froth / atmosphere interface

[0084] 11 Pulp / Froth interface

[0085] 12 Support structure (e.g., steel beam or framework above or connected directly or indirectly to any one or more of components 1-7)

[0086] 100 Inflatable froth crowder apparatus

[0087] 101 Means for inflation / deflation (e.g., a valve, an inflation tube, a pressurized gas source, a gaseous fluid inlet, an air feed tube, and / or an optional fill valve or port or the like)

[0088] 102 Means for washing, cleaning, and / or rinsing froth 9 (e.g., integrally provided or separately provided to a component)

[0089] 103 Means for receipt or introduction of washing fluid (to froth washing means 102, e.g., a liquid washing fluid inlet, a feed tube, and / or an optional fill valve or port or the like)

[0090] 104 Central opening (for accommodating stand pipe 7)

[0091] 105 Means for securing inflatable froth crowder apparatus 100 to another component within the flotation machine 1 (e.g., D-ring, carabiner, tether, eyelet, strap, webbing, fastener)

[0092] 106 Functionally-graded or non-uniform washing fluid distribution profile

[0093] 107 One or more internal baffles (for retaining structure, shape, or dividing inflatable body into separate bladders or air chambers)

[0094] 108 Valve (e.g., inflation / deflation, overpressure / blow-off valve, or the like)

[0095] 109 Means for attaching froth washing means 102 to a surface of an internal component of a flotation machine 1 (e.g., froth crowder 4)

[0096] 110 Washing fluid (for cleaning froth 8)

[0097] 111 Porous, reticulated, or perforated surface or structure

[0098] 112 Body (e.g., bladder or reservoir or spongy or mesh-type sparging substrate)

[0099] 113 Internal chambers or voids (of body 112, receiving washing fluid from means 103)

Claims

Claims1. An inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) configured for directing froth from a flotation machine tank (2) to a launder (6) of a flotation machine (1) comprising: an inflatable body having an undersurface and / or side surface configured for directing flows of froth (9) from within the flotation machine tank (2) towards the launder (6); the inflatable body comprising at least one chamber therein for receiving a gas, the inflatable body being formed from a membrane; inflation means (101) provided to a portion of the inflatable body and being configured for allowing ingress and egress of a gas to the at least one chamber; froth washing means (102) provided to a portion of the inflatable body, such as to an undersurface and / or side surface of the inflatable froth crowder assembly (100), and comprising a porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) configured for delivering washing fluid (110) therefrom to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmosphere interface (10) within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1); said froth washing means (102) further comprising means for receiving washing fluid (103).

2. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to claim 1, further comprising means (105) for securing the froth crowder assembly (100) to another component (2, 7) of the flotation machine (1).

3. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an inner cutout portion (104) which is configured to allow for clearance of a standpipe (7) and / or other components (3, 4) within the flotation machine (1).

4. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the froth washing means (102) comprises integral froth washing means which is inseparably integrated with the inflatable body and comprises a membrane which is seamed to or shares a seam with the membrane of the inflatable body.

5. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the froth washing means (102) comprises separate froth washing means which is releasably affixed to or releasably integrated with the inflatable body and is attached thereto with means for securing (109) the separate froth washing means (102) to the inflatable body.

6. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the froth washing means (102) is configured to provide a functionally graded or non-uniform distribution (106) of washing fluid (110) in at least one direction along a surface thereof.

7. The inflatable froth crowder assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the froth washing means (102) is provided to at least an outer portion of the inflatable body and / or is configured to provide a higher fluid flux or a moreconcentrated distribution of washing fluid (110) adjacent to the launder (6) of the flotation machine (1).

8. A froth washing apparatus (102) configured to be separately and / or independently attached to a component (2, 4, 100) of a of a flotation machine (1) and configured to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmosphere interface (10) within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1), the froth washing apparatus (102) comprising: a body (112) comprising a porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111) configured to emit washing fluid (110) from the body (112), the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) being provided to at least a portion of the body (112); means (103) for receiving washing fluid (110) fluidly communicating with the body (112) and configured for supplying washing fluid (110) emitted through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111); and means (109) for securing the body (112) to a component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1).

9. The froth washing apparatus (102) according claim 8, wherein the means (109) for securing comprises an adhesive, a hook and loop fastener, a fastener, a grommet, a tether, a first portion of a fastening device which is configured to be engaged with a second portion of said fastening device provided to the component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1), or a holding element provided to the component (2, 4, 100) of the flotation machine (1)which is configured to receive at least a portion of the body (112) of the froth washing apparatus (102).

10. The froth washing apparatus (102) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) is configured to provide a functionally graded or non-uniform distribution (106) of washing fluid (110) in at least one direction along a surface thereof.

11. The froth washing apparatus (102) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) is provided at a radially outer (e.g., circumferential or peripheral) portion of the component (2, 4, 100) and / or is configured to provide a higher fluid flux or more concentrated distribution of washing fluid (110) adjacent to a launder (6) of the flotation machine (1).

12. A method of cleaning froth (9) during a process of flotation using a flotation machine (1) comprising: providing an apparatus (100, 102) as described in any of the preceding claims; introducing washing fluid (110) through said means for receiving washing fluid (103); and, distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) to clean froth (9) below a pulp / atmosphere interface (10) within one or more upper regions (8, 9, 11) of a tank (2) of said flotation machine (1).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) comprises distributing the washing fluid (110) uniformly porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111).

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) comprises distributing the washing fluid (110) non-uniformly across the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the step of distributing the washing fluid (110) through the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface or structure (111) comprises distributing a higher flux of the washing fluid (110) at portions of the porous, perforated, or reticulated surface (111) which are provided closer the launder (6) of the flotation machine.

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