Cyclone pack launder having improved discharge region features for improved performance

Abstract

A launder (1) for collecting slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31) containing cyclones (32) may be characterized in that it has a specially-configured discharge region. The discharge region of the launder (1) may have two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), each extending outwardly and / or projecting from respective adjacent portions of a first outer annular sloped wall (4). Each of the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) may be provided on opposite sides of the discharge outlet (6). An extension portion (9) of the outer annular wall (2) may be provided near (and at least partially above) the discharge outlet (6). The outer annular wall (2) may extend further downwardly than other lower portions of the outer annular wall (2).

Description

[0001] Cyclone Pack Launder Having Improved Discharge Region Features for Improved Performance

[0002] Field

[0003] Embodiments of the invention relate to launders configured to receive slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (aka “cyclone bank” or “cyclone cluster”). Cyclone packs typically comprise a number of cyclones, such as hydrocyclones, which are configured to make separations of solids contained within an infeed feed slurry. Separations of solids may be made by density, particle size distribution, or the like.

[0004] Embodiments disclosed herein may find particular advantageous use within the minerals processing industry, for example, within concentrator plants containing or utilizing flotation processes.

[0005] Background

[0006] Launders used in conjunction with cyclone packs 31 must be able to receive discharged slurry and convey the same to a downstream process in a non-problematic and efficient manner. Typically, a number of cyclones 32 are provided in a carousel arrangement within a cyclone pack 31 as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0007] A launder 1 is typically provided below the cyclone pack 31 . The launder 1 is ideally designed to collect slurry discharged from cyclones 32 in the cyclone pack 31 in a manner which dissipates the energy of the exiting slurry, efficiently collects the discharged slurry, and freely conveys / moves the discharged slurry to a downstream process without problematic interruption.

[0008] Unfortunately, there can be numerous problems associated with the use of conventional cyclone pack launders.

[0009] For example, wear, sanding, and material (solids) buildups can be seen with the use of conventional cyclone pack launders. A discharge region or segment 27' of conventional cyclone pack launder can fill with material that never completely leaves the launder (i.e., the launder exhibits a “sanding” or “sand-out” condition).

[0010] Moreover, discharged slurry material can get trapped at certain regions of the launder or not efficiently proceed towards and / or out of the discharge outlet of the launder. This can hinder material flows, reduce process efficiency, and can lead to plugging, low throughput, or other problems like buildups of material within the launder. Buildups of material within the launder can lead to “caking / sticking” of material to walls and thus, can create an operating regime having smaller usable internal launder volumes, higher total launder mass, and increased launder loading.

[0011] Other problems can occur if the discharge outlet of the launder cannot aspirate properly. If air cannot properly escape or pass through the discharge outlet and / or communicate between the discharge region and discharge outlet, it can hinder exit flows and back up the launder - further complicating the other aforementioned problems.

[0012] Accordingly, launders that cannot properly aspirate will more often than not have less predictable exit flows, require significantly more structural support, and require thicker-walled reinforced structures for added strength. Launders that cannot properly aspirate may also need to be constructed larger (e.g., deeper) to accommodate additional material that cannot easily move downstream through the discharge outlet without a higher static head.

[0013] Objects of Embodiments

[0014] It is, therefore, an object of some embodiments to provide an improved cyclone pack launder 1 that overcomes or ameliorates the aforementioned problems found with conventional cyclone pack launders.

[0015] For example, an objective of some embodiments may be to provide an improved cyclone pack launder 1 that vents better than conventional devices and / or properly aspirates, thus mitigating gurgling or slowing / plugging of material discharge flows adjacent the discharge region or discharge region segment 27 of the launder 1 , without limitation. As another example, an objective of some embodiments may be to provide an improved cyclone pack launder 1 that is configured to minimize sanding occurrences, and / or discourage buildup of heavy solids within the launder, without limitation.

[0016] As yet another example, an objective of some embodiments may be to provide an improved cyclone pack launder that is configured to improve throughput and / or reduce or eliminate periodic stoppages of equipment (e.g., due to sanding occurrences), without limitation.

[0017] As yet a further example, an objective of some embodiments may be to provide an improved cyclone pack launder that is more cost-efficient to construct, support, and / or operate, without limitation.

[0018] As yet another example, an objective of some embodiments may be to provide an improved cyclone pack launder that is configured to reduce the need to “overdesign” launder structural characteristics and / or “overdesign” structural support members for the launder 1 and / or cyclone pack 31 , by virtue of improving flow throughput, minimizing sanding occurrences, and / or discouraging buildup of heavy solids within the launder 1 over time.

[0019] Other advantages may become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following disclosure.

[0020] Summary of Embodiments

[0021] A launder (1) is disclosed. The launder (1) may be configured for collecting slurry, for example, slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31) having a number of cyclones (32), without limitation. The launder (1) may comprise an upwardly-extending outer annular wall (2). The launder (1) may comprise an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3).

[0022] The upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) may have a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall (2). The upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) may be substantially centrally located within the outer annular wall (2) (e.g., in relation to or with respect to the outer annular wall (2)). The upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) may be configured to receive a pipe (33) therethrough, as depicted in FIG. 2, without limitation. The launder (1) may comprise a first outer annular sloped wall (4). The first outer annular sloped wall (4) may extend downwardly and radially-inwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2), for example, towards a sloped floor (5). The first outer annular sloped wall (4) may extend at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2), without limitation. The sloped floor (5) may be configured as a substantially planar member, without limitation. The sloped floor (5) may comprise a crescent shape, without limitation.

[0023] The launder (1) may comprise a discharge outlet (6). The discharge outlet (6) may extend generally radially-outwardly from a peripheral portion of the launder (1), for example, within a discharge region of the launder (1). The discharge outlet (6) may extend generally radially- outwardly and / or downwardly from a lower peripheral portion of the launder (1)

[0024] The launder (1) may comprise a second inner annular sloped wall (7). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) may extend from one or more lower portions of the central tubular portion (3). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) may extend towards the sloped floor (5). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) may extend at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3), without limitation. The second inner annular sloped wall (7) may extend generally radially outwardly and / or downwardly towards the sloped floor (5), without limitation.

[0025] The discharge region of the launder may comprise two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8). Each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) may extend outwardly and / or project from respective adjacent portions of the first outer annular sloped wall (4). A lateral extension facet or wall portion (8) may flare away from the first outer annular sloped wall (4) and / or outer annular wall (2) at a different angle therefrom. A lateral extension facet or wall portion (8) may be substantially planar as shown, but may have a curvature, bow, or comprise a non-planar facet structure, without limitation.

[0026] Each of the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) may be provided on opposite sides of the discharge outlet (6), without limitation.

[0027] The launder (1) may comprise an extension portion (9) of the outer annular wall (2), which may be provided near and / or at least partially above the discharge outlet (6). The extension portion (9) may be located a location of the discharge region, for example, where the outer annular wall (2) extends further downwardly than other lower portions or regions of the outer annular wall (2). The extension portion (9) may be substantially wider in a substantially vertical direction than other portions of the outer annular wall (2) which are located further away from the discharge region of the launder (1), without limitation.

[0028] In some embodiments, a portion the extension portion (9) may intersect each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8). An intersection between the extension portion (9) and a lateral extension facet or wall portion (8) may comprise a line (12) which may be substantially straight, or comprise a slight curve, without limitation.

[0029] In some embodiments, the sloped floor (5) may be crescent shaped.

[0030] In some embodiments, a widest portion of the sloped floor (5) may be substantially diametrically- opposed from a central portion of the discharge outlet (6). In some embodiments, the widest portion of the sloped floor (5) may be positioned adjacent a portion of the launder (1 ) which sits across from the discharge region of the launder (1), e.g., on an opposite / opposing side of the launder (1), when the launder (1 ) is viewed from above or from below, without limitation.

[0031] In some embodiments, the launder (1) may comprise an outer facet (10).

[0032] In some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may be provided below the extension portion (9) and / or it may comprise an upper edge or boundary which is shared with and / or defined by a lower edge of the extension portion (9), without limitation. The outer facet (10) may be angled with respect to the extension portion (9). The outer facet may be substantially planar, but could be curved or substantially non-planar in some embodiments, without limitation.

[0033] In some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may share one or more edges with, or it may at least partially be defined by intersections (14) with the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8). An intersection (14) may be configured as a substantially straight line, without limitation. However, it should be understood that an intersection (14) may be configured to follow a “non-linear” path (e.g., comprise a curve, spline, or path of line segments arranged in series), depending on the particular shape of the outer facet (10) and / or lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).

[0034] In some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may surround at least a portion of the discharge outlet (6).

[0035] In some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may surround the entire discharge outlet (6). In some embodiments, the second inner annular sloped wall (7) may comprise a lobe (11). The lobe (11 ) may be sloped, and / or arcuate. The lobe (11) may follow the same radius of curvature and / or the same downward slope as the second inner annular sloped wall (7), without limitation. This may lead to the requirement of one or more blend strips (22), e.g., having a substantially curved edge (23), in the discharge region of the launder (1), in order to join adjacent nonintersecting launder surfaces together, without limitation.

[0036] In some embodiments, the lobe (11) may extend further radially-outwardly and / or further downwardly than all other lower edge portions of the second inner annular sloped wall (7), without limitation.

[0037] In some embodiments, the lobe (11 ) may be located proximate to the discharge region of the launder (1).

[0038] In some embodiments, the lobe (11 ) may form a bottom floor surface of the discharge region of the launder (1). The lobe (11) may extend lower than and / or further radially-outward than one or more portions of the sloped floor (5), without limitation.

[0039] In some embodiments, the lobe (11) may form an angle (18) with a substantially planar surface of the sloped floor (5), without limitation.

[0040] In some embodiments, the extension portion (9) may intersect the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) along a (first) substantially curved line (12). The (first) curved line (12) may be convex along its top edge as depicted, without limitation.

[0041] In some embodiments, the extension portion (9) may intersect the outer facet (10) at its lower end along a (second) substantially curved line (13). The (second) curved line (13) may also be convex along its top edge as depicted, without limitation.

[0042] In some embodiments, the (second) curved line (13) may be established by virtue of a relative angle (25) of orientation present between the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface, profile, or edge of the extension portion (9), without limitation. In some embodiments, an inlet aperture (16) of the discharge outlet (6) may be oblong, wider in one direction, or form an ellipse by virtue of an angle of orientation of the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface portion of the extension portion (9), without limitation.

[0043] In some embodiments, an outlet aperture (17) of the discharge outlet (6) may be circular or round. In some embodiments, the inlet (16) and / or outlet (17) apertures of the discharge outlet (6) may be symmetrical as depicted, without limitation.

[0044] In some embodiments, the discharge outlet (6) may extend radially outwardly, for example, from other portions of the launder (1), without limitation. For example, the discharge outlet (6) may extend at a non-zero angle or slope (30) from or with respect to horizontal, for example, when viewing the launder (1) from the side (e.g., seen clearly in FIG. 2), without limitation. Said differently, the launder (1) may be configured such that in use, an acute angle (30) may be formed between a flow axis (35) of material leaving the discharge outlet and a horizontal axis (34), without limitation. The flow axis (35) may be shallower than the slope of a lobe (11 ), without limitation.

[0045] In some embodiments, a lobe (11) may provide a conical, frustoconical, or frustum-sloped floor to at least a portion of the discharge region, without limitation.

[0046] In some embodiments, an outer facet (10) may intersect at least one, or each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), for example, along a substantially straight line (14) as depicted in at least FIGS. 14 and 16, without limitation.

[0047] In some embodiments, a launder (1) may comprise a discharge region segment (27) which is separable from other portions of the launder (1), without limitation.

[0048] In some embodiments, a launder (1) may comprise a substantially straight zone (20). In some embodiments, the substantially straight zone (20) may be provided, for example, to two opposing portions of a discharge region segment (27). Each substantially straight zone (20) may be provided adjacent to a respective connection portion or flange (21 ) which is configured to attach to a complimentary connection portion or flange (21 ). The straight zone (20) may be substantially straight when viewed from above or below, but it may have a generally U- or V- shaped outline, profile, or cross-section when viewed from a side, without limitation. The complimentary connection portion or flange (21) may be provided to a second main body portion of the launder (1 ). The second main body portion of the launder (1 ) may be configured with a “triple cut” floor configuration as shown, without limitation. In other words, a launder (1 ) according to certain embodiments may be provided as a “modular” launder (1) assembled from two or more sections: 1) a discharge region segment (27) having a connection portion or flange (21), and a main body section having a complimentary connection portion or flange (21) as depicted, without limitation.

[0049] In some embodiments, a launder (1) may comprise a blend strip (22) between a lobe (11) and a lateral extension facet or wall portion (8). As depicted, a symmetrical launder (1) may comprise two blend strips (22) a lobe (11) and each of two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).

[0050] In some embodiments, the blend strip (22) may comprise a substantially straight edge (24) on its outer side, and a substantially curved edge (23) proximate the lobe (11 ) as depicted.

[0051] In some embodiments, an outer facet (10) may intersect a lower edge or end portion of the extension portion (9), for example, along a curved line (13).

[0052] In some embodiments, the discharge region of the launder (1) may comprise a second floor portion (26). The second floor portion (26) may be provided or arranged adjacent to where a lobe (11) terminates (e.g., as depicted clearly in FIG. 20), without limitation.

[0053] In some embodiments, a launder (1) may comprise a catch basin or trough (28) that has a deeper portion or extends further downwardly than other portions of a lobe (11) and / or which extends further downwardly than other portions of the second inner annular sloped wall (7).

[0054] In some embodiments, an outer facet (10) may comprise a lower edge (29). The lower edge (29) may intersect a second floor portion (26) (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 20), a blend strip (22), a substantially straight portion (20), and / or a shared boundary with a lobe (11), without limitation. The lower edge (29) may be spaced from, or may intersect or share an edge or boundary with an inlet aperture (16) of a discharge outlet (6), without limitation.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) may be curved or substantially curved, without limitation. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) may be straight or substantially straight, without limitation.

[0056] A discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1) configured to collect slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31) is also disclosed. The discharge region segment (27) may be used to replace a discharge region segment (27') of the prior art that may have an inferior design, in order to improve the overall functionality and efficiency of the launder (1). The discharge region segment (27) may be a serviceable, replaceable, modular component of a launder (1) that can be retrofitted to an existing main launder body, without limitation. In other words, the discharge region segment may be thought of as a modular subcomponent of a launder (1 ) assembly.

[0057] The discharge region segment (27) may have an upwardly-extending outer annular wall (2). The discharge region segment (27) may have an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3). The upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) may have a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall (2). The upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) may be located within the outer annular wall (2), for example, located substantially centrally within or respect to the outer annular wall (2), without limitation.

[0058] The discharge region segment (27) may comprise a first outer annular sloped wall (4), for example, a first outer annular sloped wall (4) which is extending downwardly and radially-inwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2), towards a sloped floor (5). The first outer annular sloped wall (4) may extend at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2), without limitation.

[0059] The discharge region segment (27) may comprise a second inner annular sloped wall (7), for example, a second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending from lower portions the central tubular portion (3) and / or extending towards the sloped floor (5). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) may extend at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3), without limitation.

[0060] The discharge region segment (27) may comprise a discharge outlet (6). The discharge outlet (6) may be configured as a tubular section, extrusion, or pipe, without limitation. The discharge outlet (6) may be configured to extend generally radially-outwardly from a peripheral portion of the launder (1). The discharge outlet (6) may comprise two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) configured to extend outwardly from the first outer annular sloped wall (4) as depicted in the figures, without limitation. Each of the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) may be provided on opposite sides of the discharge outlet (6). An extension portion (9) may be provided near the discharge outlet (6). The extension portion (9) may be configured to extend further downwardly than other lower portions of the outer annular wall (2). Alternatively to, or in combination with the former, the extension portion (9) may be substantially wider in a substantially vertical direction than other portions of the outer annular wall (2), without limitation.

[0061] A portion of the extension portion (9) may intersect each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), without limitation.

[0062] The discharge region segment (27) may comprise an outer facet (10), without limitation.

[0063] The outer facet (10) may be provided below the extension portion (9) and / or may comprise an upper edge or boundary (13) which is shared with and / or defined by a lower edge of the extension portion (9), without limitation.

[0064] The outer facet (10) may share one or more edges with, and / or may be at least partially defined by intersections (14) with the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), without limitation.

[0065] In some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may surround at least a portion of the discharge outlet (6). For example, in some embodiments, the outer facet (10) may surround the entire discharge outlet (6), without limitation.

[0066] In some embodiments, the discharge region segment (27) may comprise a lobe (11). The lobe (11 ) may be sloped and / or arcuate, without limitation. The lobe (11 ) may be curved or form a truncated portion or section of a thin cone (e.g., a section of a thin-walled frustocone), without limitation. The lobe (11) may share a similar slope and or radius of curvature as a second inner annular sloped wall (7) that is provided to a main launder body to which the discharge region segment (27) is configured to be attached to.

[0067] In some embodiments of a discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ), the lobe (11) may be configured to extend further radially-outwardly and / or further downwardly than all other portions of the discharge region segment (27), without limitation. In some embodiments, the lobe (11 ) may form a bottom floor surface of a discharge region of a launder (1) when the discharge region segment (27) is attached to a main body portion of a launder (1). The lobe (11) may be configured to extend lower than and / or further radially-outward than one or more portions of a sloped floor (5) of the main body portion, for example, when forming a portion of the launder (1 ) by connecting the discharge region segment (27) to a main body portion of a launder (1).

[0068] In some embodiments, the lobe (11) may be configured to form an angle (18) with a substantially planar surface of a sloped floor (5) when the discharge region segment (27) forms a portion of a fully-constructed launder (1), without limitation.

[0069] In some embodiments of a discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ), the extension portion (9) may intersect one or more (or both) lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), for example, along a curved line (12), without limitation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the extension portion (9) may intersect the outer facet (10) at its lower end along a curved line (13) or substantially curved line, without limitation.

[0071] In some embodiments, the curved (or substantially-curved) line (13) may established by virtue of a relative angle (25) of orientation which may be present between the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface of the extension portion (9) as depicted in FIGS. 16, 18, and 20, without limitation.

[0072] In some embodiments, an inlet aperture (16) of the discharge outlet (6) may be oblong, wider in one direction, or form an ellipse; for example, by virtue of an angle (25) of orientation of the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface portion of the extension portion (9), without limitation. The oblong shape may be advantageously configured to help improve aspiration / venting of the discharge outlet (6) and / or improve exit flows therethrough, without limitation.

[0073] In some embodiments, an outlet aperture (17) of the discharge outlet (6) may be circular (e.g., round, or substantially round or circular), without limitation.

[0074] In some embodiments, the discharge outlet (6) may extend radially outwardly from other portions of the discharge region segment (27), for example, at a non-zero slope or angle (30) from horizontal (34). The angle (30), may be measured when viewing the discharge region segment (27) from the side (e.g., seen clearly in FIG. 2). The non-zero slope or angle (30) from horizontal (34) may be measured with respect to an axis of the discharge outlet (6) and / or with respect to an exit flow axis (35) as depicted, without limitation.

[0075] In some embodiments, a lobe (11) may provide at least a partially conical, frustoconical, frustocone, or frustum-shaped sloped floor portion to at least a portion of the discharge region segment, without limitation.

[0076] In some embodiments, an outer facet (10) may intersect one, both, or each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), for example, along a substantially straight line (14), without limitation.

[0077] In some embodiments, the discharge region segment (27) may comprise a substantially straight zone (20), without limitation.

[0078] A substantially straight zone (20) may be provided to two opposing portions of the discharge region segment (27), without limitation. Each substantially straight zone (20) may be provided adjacent to a respective connection portion or flange (21 ) which is configured to attach to a complimentary connection portion or flange (21) as depicted, without limitation.

[0079] In some embodiments, the discharge region segment (27) may comprise a blend strip (22) between a lobe (11) and a lateral extension facet or wall portion (8). Multiple blend strips (22) may be provided to a launder (1) or to a side of a launder (1 ), without limitation. A plurality of blend strips (22) may be provided in a symmetrically-designed discharge region segment (27). A blend strip (22) may be provided between a lobe (11) and each of two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8), without limitation.

[0080] A blend strip (22), where used herein, may comprise a straight edge (24) or a substantially straight edge on its outer side, and a curved edge (23) or a substantially curved edge proximate the lobe (11 ), as depicted, without limitation.

[0081] In some embodiments, an outer facet (10) may intersect a lower edge or end portion of the extension portion (9) along a curved, or substantially-curved line (13), without limitation.

[0082] In some embodiments, the discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) may comprise a second floor portion (26) adjacent to where a lobe (11 ) terminates (e.g., as depicted in FIG. 20), and thus be configured to form a “drop-box” launder configuration, without limitation. In some embodiments, a discharge region segment (27) may comprise a catch basin or trough (28). The catch basin or trough (28) may be configured such that it comprises a deeper portion or extends further downwardly than other portions of a lobe (11), sloped floor (5), and / or first outer annular sloped wall (4), without limitation.

[0083] In some embodiments, a discharge region segment (27) may have an outer facet (10) comprising a lower edge (29). The lower edge (29) may intersect a second floor portion (26) (e.g., FIG. 20), a blend strip (22), a substantially straight portion (20), and / or a shared boundary with a lobe (11), without limitation.

[0084] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) may be curved or substantially curved, without limitation.

[0085] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) may be straight or substantially straight, without limitation.

[0086] A method of retrofitting a launder (1) is further disclosed. The launder (1) being retrofitted may be configured to collect slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31). The method of retrofitting may comprise the step of providing a launder. The launder being provided may have an upwardly- extending outer annular wall (2). The launder being provided may have an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) having a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall (2) and / or which is substantially centrally located within the outer annular wall (2).

[0087] The launder being provided may have a first outer annular sloped wall (4), for example which is extending substantially downwardly and / or radial ly-i nwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) towards a sloped floor (5). The first outer annular sloped wall (4) of the provided launder may be extending at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2), without limitation. The launder being provided may have a second inner annular sloped wall (7), for example, a second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending from lower portions the central tubular portion (3) and / or extending towards the sloped floor (5). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) of the provided launder may be extending at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3). The second inner annular sloped wall (7) of the provided launder may be extending generally radially-outwardly and / or downwardly towards the sloped floor (5). The launder being provided may comprise a conventional discharge region segment (27') of the prior art (for example, a discharge region as depicted in any one of FIGS. 22-30, without limitation). The launder being provided may comprise a discharge region segment (27) in accordance with the invention, which needs refurbishment or replacing, without limitation.

[0088] The method may be characterised in that it may further comprise the step of removing the existing discharge region segment (27, 27') from the launder (1), if present. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may be characterised in that it may further comprise the step of replacing the (optionally) removed discharge segment (27, 27') with a discharge region segment (27) according to one or more of the embodiments described above.

[0089] The method may comprise a step of merely providing, offering to provide, selling, advertising, quoting, bidding for, shipping, or otherwise making available, a discharge region segment (27) or launder (1) according to an embodiment disclosed or depicted herein. Thus, the spirit of this method may involve any operations involved with converting a conventional cyclone pack launder according to the prior art to a launder (1 ) according to one of the embodiments of the invention, without limitation.

[0090] A method of minimizing total aggregated weight of a cyclone pack launder (1 ) in an empty, normal, flooded, or sanded condition is further disclosed. The method may comprise one or more of the following steps, in any combination, number, or order: providing a launder (1) body portion having a triple cut configuration, the triple cut configuration comprising a first outer annular sloped wall (4), a sloped floor (5), and a second inner annular sloped wall (7), with the sloped floor (5) separating the first annular sloped wall (4) and the second inner annular sloped wall (7); providing or offering to provide a discharge region segment (27) according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments; combining or offering to combine the discharge region segment (27) according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments with other components (e.g., a main body portion of a launder assembly) to form a launder (1) which is configured for placement underneath a cyclone pack (31) that is in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed herein; optionally connecting the discharge outlet (6) to a discharge pipe; optionally running the cyclones (32) to discharge slurry therefrom; optionally, filling or at least partially filling to the launder (1) with slurry exiting the cyclones (32); optionally, removing slurry from the launder (1) through the discharge outlet (6), for example, in an efficient manner, without limitation.

[0091] A method of operating a cyclone pack (31) is further disclosed. Embodiments of the method may comprise one or more of the following steps, in any combination, number, or order: providing a launder (1) according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments, underneath a cyclone pack (31); introducing slurry to one or more cyclones (32) within the cyclone pack (31); discharging slurry from said one or more cyclones (32) within the cyclone pack (31) into the launder (1) according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments; discharging slurry from the launder (1) according to any one of the aforementioned embodiments through the discharge outlet (6), for example, in an efficient manner, without limitation.

[0092] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0093] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a launder 1 according to a first non-limiting embodiment positioned under a cyclone bank 31 comprising a number of cyclones 32. The launder 1 is preferably configured to receive, collect, and / or convey slurry discharged from the cyclones 32 to a downstream process step in a more efficient manner.

[0094] FIGS. 3-9 depict various views of the launder 1 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, separated from the cyclone bank 31 . As depicted, the launder 1 embodiment may be configured as a modular launder assembly comprising a discharge region having a separable discharge region segment 27.

[0095] FIGS. 10-17 depict a separable discharge region segment 27 from the launder 1 depicted in FIGS. 1-9.

[0096] FIG. 18 depicts a separable discharge region segment 27 for a cyclone pack launder 1 according to a second non-limiting embodiment.

[0097] FIGS. 19 and 20 respectively depict a cyclone pack launder 1 according to a third non-limiting embodiment, and a third non-limiting embodiment of a discharge region or separable discharge segment 27 for a cyclone pack launder 1 . FIG. 21 is used to help more clearly portray a direct side-by-side comparison of a discharge region or discharge region segment 27 in accordance with embodiments of the invention, with a prior art discharge region or discharge region segment 27' device according to the prior art (FIG. 22).

[0098] FIGS. 22-30 depict various views of a discharge region of a cyclone pack launder 1 in accordance with the prior art.

[0099] Detailed Description

[0100] A launder 1 for use in conjunction with a cyclone pack 31 having a number of cyclones (32) is disclosed. The launder 1 may be called a cyclone pack launder, a cyclone bank launder, a cyclone cluster launder, or the like, without limitation.

[0101] The launder 1 may have an upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2, as depicted. Within the upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2, an upwardly-extending tubular portion 3 may be provided. One or more floor portions 2, 5, 7, which may each be differently sloped or configured, may span or bridge the distance between the outer annular wall 2, and the tubular portion 3. The upwardly- extending tubular portion 3 may be substantially centrally located with respect to its positioning within the launder, relative to the upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2. The one or more floor portions 2, 5, 7, may intersect or converge to form a compound angle sloped floor.

[0102] The launder 1 may have a first outer annular sloped wall 4, as well as a sloped floor 5 to define a “triple cut” launder configuration when combined with a second inner annular sloped wall 7. This “triple cut” floor design may help improve movement of collected slurry in multiple directions towards a discharge outlet 6 of the launder and prevent buildup zones where sanding can occur.

[0103] To further improve movement of collected slurry through discharge outlet 6, an improved discharge region of the launder 1 is proffered herewith. The improved discharge region may be integral with, or made separable from a main body portion of the launder 1 . Accordingly, some embodiments may incorporate the use of a separate discharge region segment 27 component that can be assembled with a main body portion component to form a launder 1 assembly in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The discharge region of the launder 1 may comprise one or more lateral extension facet(s) or wall portion(s) 8. Notably, the discharge region of the launder 1 may comprise an extension portion 9, which provides a “drop box” launder design configuration.

[0104] The extension portion 9 may comprise a further downwardly-extending or further downwardly- projecting portion of the upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2, for example, as depicted in the appended figures. In the discharge region / discharge region segment 27 of the launder 1 , the lower end or lower edge portion of the upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2 may extend further downwardly than other portions of the upwardly-extending outer annular wall 2 as depicted. Accordingly, adjacent the discharge region, the extension portion 9 may be formed by this downward vertical extension of the outer annular wall 2.

[0105] A discharge region / discharge region segment 27 of the launder 1 may include an outer facet 10. The outer facet 10 may meet directly or indirectly join with an arcuate lobe 11 . The outer facet 10 may be angled with respect to the extension portion 9. For example, the outer facet 10 may intersect the extension portion 9 at an angle 25 as can be most clearly appreciated from FIGS. 16 and 18.

[0106] One or more lower portions of the extension portion 9 may be defined by a curved or substantially- curved line(s) 12, without limitation. These line(s) 12 may be smoothly curved, may comprise a curve defined by line segments, may comprise a segmented curve, and / or may be referred to as one or more “first” curves, without limitation. Lower, laterally positioned edge portions of the extension portion 9 may each be defined (e.g., symmetrically), by its own curved or substantially- curved line 12 as depicted. It should be understood, however, that these lines 12, which may flank or extend from upper corners of outer facet 10 may alternatively be configured to be substantially straight or have a very slight or undetectable curvature, without limitation. However, as shown, a line 12 forming a lower boundary of extension portion 9 may form a slight curve by virtue of a substantially planar lateral extension facet or wall portion 8 intersecting a substantially curved (e.g., arcuate or partially-cyl indrical) surface of the extension portion 9, without limitation.

[0107] As depicted, lower portions of the extension portion 9 may be defined by a “second” curved or substantially-curved line 13, without limitation. The line 13 may be smoothly curved, may comprise a curve defined by line segments, may comprise a segmented curve, and / or may be referred to as a “second” curve, so as to not be confused with the first curve(s) 12 mentioned above. The central lower edge portion of the extension portion 9 may be defined by the second curved or substantially- curved line 13. The second curved or substantially-curved line 13 may be formed by an intersection between the extension portion 9 of the curved outer wall 2, and the outer facet 10, which may be generally planar and angled at an angle 25 of orientation with respect to the outer wall, without limitation.

[0108] As depicted, the second curved or substantially-curved line 13 may be positioned between two of the aforementioned first curves 12. Thus, in some embodiments, the entire lower edge of the extension portion 9 may be defined by 3 curved (or somewhat curved) line segments 12, 13 - each of these curved line segments being oriented such that they are convex at their upper sides and concave on their lower sides as depicted.

[0109] An intersection 14 may be formed between the outer facet 10 and each lateral extension facet or wall portion 8 as depicted. Intersection(s) 14 may comprise a substantially straight line, as shown, without limitation. However, the particular shape of the intersection(s) 14 may depend on the shape and / or outer profile of the perimeter of the outer facet 10. Intersection(s) 14 may be generally oriented in a substantially vertical direction, but may comprise an angle in more than one axis multiple axes or planes. As shown, the intersection(s) 14 may extend obliquely in an approximate 20-60 degree angle in at least two directions, relative to a traditional X-Y-Z coordinate scheme. This can be most clearly appreciated from FIGS. 12-14.

[0110] An intersection 15 (e.g., corner, junction, meeting point) may be formed between elements 12, 13, and 14. Embodiments of a launder 1 may comprise two of these intersections 15 as depicted, without limitation.

[0111] The discharge region of the launder or discharge region segment 27 of a launder 1 may comprise an inlet aperture 16, which may comprise an opening for slurry to pass through. The inlet aperture 16 may be, for example, oblong, oval, ovoid, ovate, elliptical, and / or oval-shaped as shown. The oblong configuration may be due to a relative angle whereby a preferably round, tubular discharge outlet 6 profile meets, adjoins, or intersects with the angled outer facet 10.

[0112] An outlet aperture 17 may comprise an opening at the distal radial outward end of discharge outlet 6. This outlet aperture 17 may be round, circular, or substantially round and / or circular, if the discharge outlet 6 is configured as a round pipe, tube, or extrusion. In non-disclosed, nonillustrated embodiments where the discharge outlet 6 may be configured as a square or rectangular pipe, tube, or extrusion, the outlet aperture 17 may be square or rectangular, and the inlet aperture 16 may be more elongated or extended in a direction along outer facet 10. Other cross-sectional shapes of discharge outlet 6 (e.g., multi-sided polygons) are anticipated by the inventor.

[0113] An angle 18 may exist at a junction or corner 19 between the sloped floor 5 and the arcuate lobe 11 . The angle 18 may be obtuse as depicted in FIGS. 4-6, without limitation.

[0114] A substantially straight zone or portion 20 may be provided between the first outer annular sloped wall 4, and each lateral extension facet or wall portion 8, as depicted. The substantially straight zone or portion 20 may be provided between a blend strip and sloped floor 5, as depicted. The substantially straight zone or portion 20 may be provided at one or more portions of the outer annular wall 2 (e.g., at an intersection(s) with extension portion 9). The substantially straight zone or portion 20 may be provided at one or more portions of the upwardly-extending tubular portion 3.

[0115] Proximate this straight zone or portion 20 may be provided a connection portion or flange 21 for connecting a separable discharge region segment 27 component from a main body portion component of the launder 1 , as depicted. The substantially straight zone or portion 20 can be appreciated from the top plan view in FIG. 13, but may have a unique “cup” shape (e.g., U- or V- shape) when viewed from a side end view as can be more clearly appreciated by view presented in FIG. 17.

[0116] A blend strip 22 having a substantially curved edge 23 portion, and a substantially straight edge 24 portion may be provided to blend and / or connect lobe 11 with each lateral extension facet or wall portion 8, as depicted. The blend strip 22 may abut or share a portion of the substantially straight zone or portion 20, without limitation.

[0117] A relative angle 25 of orientation may be present between the outer facet 10 and the extension portion 9. For example, the angle 25 may be measured relative to a curved surface of the extension portion 9) when the discharge region is viewed from the side as can be most clearly appreciated from FIGS. 16, 18, and 20.

[0118] In some alternative embodiments of a “dropbox” launder 1 or discharge region segment 27 for a launder 1 configured for use in conjunction with a cyclone pack 31 , a second floor portion 26 may be provided. This second floor portion 26 may be vertically offset or displaced from or disjointed with respect to the sloped floor 5 of the launder 1 . Accordingly, the second floor 26 may be positioned lower with respect to the sloped floor 5 as can be appreciated most clearly from FIG. 20. This configuration of the vertically offset second floor portion 26 may form a catch basin or trough 28 defined between the sloped floor 5 and second floor 26 (e.g., which may be bounded by lateral extension facets or wall portions 8), without limitation.

[0119] In some embodiments, a lower edge 29 of the outer facet 10 may be defined at or near a lower junction between the outer facet 10 and the lobe 11 . This lower edge 29 may be straight, substantially straight, curved, slightly curved, or substantially curved, without limitation. As shown, lower edge 29 may comprise a slight curvature. However, lower edge 29 could alternatively be straight or comprise a series of line segments joined together at different angles, without limitation

[0120] As can be appreciated from FIG. 2, a non-zero angle 30 may exist or be intentionally formed between a horizontal axis 34 (which may lie in a horizontal plane across the body of the launder 1 and a discharge flow axis / discharge outlet axis 35. The non-zero angle 30 may comprise a downward acute angle with respect to horizontal axis as shown, without limitation. This non-zero angle 30 may assist with moving material collected within the launder 1 to a downstream process step more easily, and / or may help to discourage buildup or sanding in the discharge region of the launder. The non-zero angle 30 may be any acute angle, but it is preferably less than 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal axis 34. For example, angle 30 may be between 5 and 30 degrees, or between approximately 10-20 degrees, or approximately 12-15 degrees without limitation.

[0121] As most clearly depicted in FIG. 2, a pipe 33 for conveying material such as slurry, may be arranged to extend substantially vertically through tubular portion 3, without limitation. Thus, a pipe 33 may be configured to have a somewhat smaller diameter than a diameter of the tubular portion 3 of the launder 1 .

[0122] Reference Numeral Identifiers

[0123] 1 . Launder (e.g., cyclone pack launder, cyclone bank launder, cyclone cluster launder)

[0124] 2. Upwardly-extending outer annular wall

[0125] 3. Upwardly-extending tubular portion

[0126] 4. First outer annular sloped wall

[0127] 5. Sloped floor

[0128] 6. Discharge outlet

[0129] 7. Second inner annular sloped wall

[0130] 8. Lateral extension facet(s) or wall portion(s)

[0131] 9. Extension portion

[0132] 10. Outer facet

[0133] 11 . Arcuate lobe

[0134] 12. Curved line(s) (e.g., smoothly curved, curve defined by line segments, segmented curve, first curve(s))

[0135] 13. Curved line (e.g., smoothly curved, curve defined by line segments, segmented curve, second curve)

[0136] 14. Intersection(s) (e.g., substantially straight line)

[0137] 15. Intersection (e.g., corner, junction, meeting point, between elements 12, 13, 14)

[0138] 16. Inlet aperture (e.g., opening, oblong, oval, ovoid, ovate, elliptical, oval-shaped)

[0139] 17. Outlet aperture (e.g., opening, circular, round)

[0140] 18. Angle (e.g., at junction 19, between sloped floor 5 and arcuate lobe 11)

[0141] 19. Junction or corner (between sloped floor 5 and arcuate lobe 11 )

[0142] 20. Substantially straight zone or portion

[0143] 21 . Connection portion or flange

[0144] 22. Blend strip

[0145] 23. Substantially curved edge

[0146] 24. Substantially straight edge

[0147] 25. Relative angle (e.g., of orientation present between the outer facet 10, relative to a curved surface of the extension portion 9).

[0148] 26. Second floor portion

[0149] 27. Discharge region or segment (invention)

[0150] 27' Discharge region or segment (prior art)

[0151] 28. Catch basin or trough 29. Lower edge

[0152] 30. Non-zero angle (e.g., between axes 34 & 35, downward acute angle with respect to horizontal axis)

[0153] 31 . Cyclone pack (i.e. , “cyclone bank” or “cyclone cluster”)

[0154] 32. Cyclone(s) (e.g., hydrocyclone(s))

[0155] 33. Pipe (e.g., to convey slurry, extending through tubular portion 3)

[0156] 34. Horizontal axis

[0157] 35. Discharge flow axis (through discharge outlet 6)

Claims

1.Claims:1) A launder (1) for collecting slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31) having a number of cyclones (32) therein, the launder (1) comprising: an upwardly-extending outer annular wall (2); an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) having a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall and being substantially centrally located within the outer annular wall (2); a first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending generally downwardly and / or radially-inwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) towards a sloped floor (5), the first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2); a discharge outlet (6) extending generally radially-outwardly from a lower peripheral portion of the launder (1) within a discharge region of the launder (1); and a second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending from lower portions the central tubular portion (3) and extending generally downwardly towards the sloped floor (5), the second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3); CHARACTERISED IN THAT the discharge region of the launder (1) further comprises: two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) each extending outwardly and / or projecting from respective adjacent portions of the first outer annular sloped wall (4), each of the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) being provided on opposite sides of the discharge outlet (6), and an extension portion (9) of the outer annular wall (2) provided near and at least partially above the discharge outlet (6), for example, where the outer annular wall (2) extends further downwardly than other lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) and / or where the outer annular wall is configured to be substantially wider in a vertical direction than other portions of the outer annular wall (2) which are located further away from the discharge region of the launder (1); wherein a portion the extension portion (9) intersects each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).2) The launder (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the sloped floor (5) is crescent shaped.3) The launder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a widest portion of the sloped floor (5) is substantially diametrically-opposed from a central portion of the discharge outlet (6), or, the widest portion of the sloped floor (5) is positioned adjacent a portion of the launder which sits across from the discharge region of the launder (1) on an opposite / opposing side of the launder (1) when the launder (1) is viewed from above or from below.4) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the launder (1) further comprises an outer facet (10).5) The launder (1) according to claim 4, wherein the outer facet (10) is provided below the extension portion (9) and / or comprises an upper edge or boundary which is shared with and / or defined by a lower edge of the extension portion (9).6) The launder (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the outer facet (10) shares edges with, or is at least partially defined by intersections (14) with the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).7) The launder (1) according to any one of claims 4-6, wherein the outer facet (10) surrounds at least a portion of the discharge outlet (6).8) The launder (1) according to claim 7, wherein the outer facet (10) surrounds the entire discharge outlet (6).9) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second inner annular sloped wall (7) comprises a sloped arcuate lobe (11 ) which follows the same radius of curvature and the same slope as the second inner annular sloped wall (7).10) The launder (1) according to claim 9, wherein the arcuate lobe (11 ) extends further radially- outwardly and / or further downwardly than all other lower edge portions of the second inner annular sloped wall (7).11 ) The launder (1 ) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the lobe (11 ) is located proximate to the discharge region of the launder (1).12) The launder (1) according to any one of claims 9-11 , wherein the lobe (11) forms a bottom floor surface of the discharge region of the launder (1) and extends lower than and / or further radially- outward than one or more portions of the sloped floor (5).13) The launder (1) according to any one of claims 9-12, wherein the lobe (11) forms an angle (18) with a substantially planar surface of the sloped floor (5).14) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension portion (9) intersects the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) along a curved line (12).15) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension portion (9) intersects the outer facet (10) at its lower end along a curved line (13).16) The launder (1) according to claim 15, wherein the curved line (13) is established by virtue of a relative angle (25) of orientation present between the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface of the extension portion (9).17) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an inlet aperture (16) of the discharge outlet (6) is oblong, wider in one direction, or forms an ellipse by virtue of an angle of orientation of the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface portion of the extension portion (9).18) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outlet aperture (17) of the discharge outlet (6) is circular.19) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge outlet (6) extends radially outwardly from other portions of the launder (1) at a non-zero slope (30) from horizontal, for example, when viewing the launder (1) from the side (e.g., seen clearly in FIG. 2).20) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a lobe (11) provides a conical, frustoconical, or frustum-sloped floor to at least a portion of the discharge region.21) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer facet (10) intersects each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) along a substantially straight line (14).22) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a discharge region segment (27) which is separable from other portions of the launder (1).23) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a substantially straight zone (20).24) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a substantially straight zone (20) is provided to two opposing portions of a discharge region segment (27), each substantially straight zone (20) being provided adjacent to a respective connection portion or flange (21) configured to attach to a complimentary connection portion or flange (21).25) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a blend strip (22) between a lobe (11) and each lateral extension facet or wall portion (8).26) The launder (1) according to claim 25, wherein the blend strip (22) comprises a substantially straight edge (24) on its outer side, and a substantially curved edge (23) proximate the lobe (11).27) The launder (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer facet (10) intersects a lower edge or end portion of the extension portion (9) along a curved line (13).28) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the discharge region of the launder (1) comprises a second floor portion (26) adjacent to where a lobe (11) terminates (e.g., FIG. 20)29) The launder (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a catch basin or trough (28) that has a deeper portion or extends further downwardly than other portions of a lobe (11 ) and / or which extends further downwardly than other portions of the second inner annular sloped wall (7).30) The launder (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer facet (10) comprises a lower edge (29) which intersects a second floor portion (26) (e.g., FIG. 20), a blend strip (22), a substantially straight portion (20), or a shared boundary with a lobe (11).31) The launder (1) according to claim 30, wherein at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) is curved.32) The launder (1) according to claim 30 or 31 , wherein at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) is straight.33) A discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1) that is configured to collect slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31 ), the launder (1), when assembled with the discharge region segment (27) having: an upwardly-extending outer annular wall (2); an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) having a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall and which is substantially centrally located within and / or with respect to the outer annular wall (2); a first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending generally downwardly and / or radially- inwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) towards a sloped floor (5), the first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2); a second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending from lower portions the central tubular portion (3) and extending generally downwardly towards the sloped floor (5) the second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3); wherein the discharge region segment (27) comprises a discharge outlet (6) configured to extend generally radially-outwardly from a lower peripheral portion of the launder (1), CHARACTERISED IN THAT the discharge region segment (27) comprises: two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) configured to extend outwardly from the first outer annular sloped wall (4), each of the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) being provided on opposite sides of the discharge outlet (6), and an extension portion (9) provided near the discharge outlet (6) which is configured to extend further downwardly than other lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) and / or is which is configured to be substantially wider in a vertical direction than other portions of the outer annular wall (2); wherein a portion the extension portion (9) intersects each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).34) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 33, further comprising an outer facet (10).35) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 34, wherein the outer facet (10) is provided below the extension portion (9) and / or comprises an upper edge or boundary (13) which is shared with and / or defined by a lower edge of the extension portion (9).36) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the outer facet (10) shares edges with, or is at least partially defined by intersections (14) with the two lateral extension facets or wall portions (8).37) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 34-36, wherein the outer facet (10) surrounds at least a portion of the discharge outlet (6).38) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 37, wherein the outer facet (10) surrounds the entire discharge outlet (6).39) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-38, further comprising a sloped arcuate lobe (11).40) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 39, wherein the arcuate lobe (11) is configured to extend further radially-outwardly and / or further downwardly than all other portions of the discharge region segment (27).41) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-40, wherein the lobe (11) forms a bottom floor surface of the discharge region of the launder (1) and is configured to extend lower than and / or further radially-outward than one or more portions of the sloped floor (5) when forming a portion of the launder (1).42) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-41 , wherein the lobe (11) is configured to form an angle (18) with a substantially planar surface of the sloped floor (5) when forming a portion of the launder (1).43) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-42, wherein the extension portion (9) intersects the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) along a curved line (12).44) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one claims 34-43, wherein the extension portion (9) intersects the outer facet (10) at its lower end along a curved line (13).45) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 44, wherein the curved line (13) is established by virtue of a relative angle (25) of orientation present between the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface of the extension portion (9).46) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 34-45, wherein an inlet aperture (16) of the discharge outlet (6) is oblong, wider in one direction, or forms an ellipse by virtue of an angle of orientation of the outer facet (10) relative to a curved surface portion of the extension portion (9).47) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-46, wherein an outlet aperture (17) of the discharge outlet (6) is circular.48) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-47, wherein the discharge outlet (6) extends radially outwardly from other portions of the discharge region segment (27) at a non-zero slope (30) from horizontal, for example, when viewing the discharge region segment (27) from the side (e.g., seen clearly in FIG. 2).49) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-48, wherein a lobe (11) provides a conical, frustoconical, or frustum-sloped floor to at least a portion of the discharge region segment.50) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-49, wherein an outer facet (10) intersects each of the lateral extension facets or wall portions (8) along a substantially straight line (14).51) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-50, further comprising a substantially straight zone (20).52) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-51 , wherein a substantially straight zone (20) is provided to two opposing portions of the discharge region segment (27), each substantially straight zone (20) being provided adjacent to a respective connection portion or flange (21) configured to attach to a complimentary connection portion or flange (21).53) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-52, further comprising a blend strip (22) between a lobe (11) and each lateral extension facet or wall portion (8).54) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 53, wherein the blend strip (22) comprises a straight edge (24) on its outer side, and a curved edge (23) proximate the lobe (11).55) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-54, wherein an outer facet (10) intersects a lower edge or end portion of the extension portion (9) along a curved line (13).56) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-55, wherein the discharge region of the launder (1) comprises a second floor portion (26) adjacent to where a lobe (11) terminates (e.g., FIG. 20)57) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-56, further comprising a catch basin or trough (28) that has a deeper portion or extends further downwardly than other portions of a lobe (11 ).58) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to any one of claims 33-57, wherein an outer facet (10) comprises a lower edge (29) which intersects a second floor portion (26) (e.g., FIG. 20), a blend strip (22), a substantially straight portion (20), or a shared boundary with a lobe (11).59) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 58, wherein at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) is curved.60) The discharge region segment (27) for a launder (1 ) according to claim 58 or 59, wherein at least a portion of the lower edge (29) of the outer facet (10) is straight.61) A method of retrofitting a launder (1) configured to collect slurry discharged from a cyclone pack (31), comprising the steps of: providing a launder (1) having: an upwardly-extending outer annular wall (2);an upwardly-extending tubular portion (3) having a smaller diameter than the outer annular wall and which is substantially centrally located within or with respect to the outer annular wall (2); a first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending generally downwardly and radially-inwardly from lower portions of the outer annular wall (2) towards a sloped floor (5), the first outer annular sloped wall (4) extending at a shallower angle than the outer annular wall (2); a second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending from lower portions the central tubular portion (3) and extending generally downwardly towards the sloped floor (5), the second inner annular sloped wall (7) extending at a shallower angle than the tubular portion (3); and, a conventional discharge region segment (27');CHARACTERISED IN THAT the method further comprises one or more of the following steps: removing the discharge region segment (27') from the launder (1), if present; and replacing the removed discharge segment (27') with a discharge region segment (27) according to any one of claims 33-60.62) A method of minimizing total aggregated weight of a cyclone pack launder (1) in an empty, normal, flooded, or sanded condition comprising: providing a launder (1) comprising a main body portion component having a triple cut configuration, the triple cut configuration comprising a first outer annular sloped wall (4), a sloped floor (5), and a second inner annular sloped wall (7), with the sloped floor (5) separating the first annular sloped wall (4) and the second inner annular sloped wall (7);CHARACTERISED IN THAT the method further comprises and one or more of the following steps: providing or offering to provide the discharge region segment (27) according to any one of claims 33-60; providing or offering to provide the launder (1) according to any one of claims 1-32; combining the discharge region segment (27) with other components, such as a main body portion component of a launder, to form a launder (1) according to any one of claims 1-32 which is configured for placement underneath a cyclone pack (31), optionally connecting the discharge outlet (6) to a discharge pipe; optionally running the cyclones (32) to discharge slurry therefrom; optionally, filling or at least partially filling the launder (1 ) with slurry exiting the cyclones (32); and optionally, removing slurry from the launder (1) through the discharge outlet (6).63) A method of operating a cyclone pack (31) comprising one or more of the following steps: providing the launder (1) according to any one of claims 1-32 underneath the cyclone pack (32); introducing slurry to one or more cyclones (32) within the cyclone pack (31), discharging slurry from said one or more cyclones (32) within the cyclone pack (31) into the launder (1), and discharging slurry from the launder (1 ) through the discharge outlet (6).

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