Flotation Cell Sensor for In-Line Gas Velocity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring surface gas velocity, froth depth, apparent density, and holdup in flotation cells are inadequate for real-time monitoring, particularly in industrial settings, as they are either not suitable for continuous measurement or require impractical calibration.
Innovation Solution
A sensing device comprising a first and second tube with valves, pressure gauges, and mass flow meters, arranged coaxially with a processor to continuously measure and calculate surface gas velocity, froth depth, apparent density, and holdup, allowing for kinetic process control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If parallel tube method is used for measuring surface gas velocity, then measurement can be performed, but continuous surface gas velocity measurement is not suitable
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is divided into multiple independent measurement sections (first measurement section with first tube, second measurement section with second tube) that can operate simultaneously and continuously. Each tube has its own valve and flow meter, allowing independent control and continuous measurement without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous measurement by maintaining open flow paths through the tubes during operation. The valves are controlled to keep the measurement sections open, allowing uninterrupted gas flow and continuous velocity measurement throughout the flotation process.
2Measurement precision
If orifice plate method is used for measuring surface gas velocity, then measurement can be performed, but gas velocity measurement settling time is problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration and setup before actual measurement, establishing baseline flow characteristics. The measurement sections are pre-configured with known geometry and flow paths, allowing immediate accurate measurement without prolonged settling time during operation.
3Measurement precision
If orifice plate method is used for measuring surface gas velocity, then measurement can be performed, but prior calibration is required which is not practicable in industrial environments
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system is designed to be self-calibrating through its inherent geometric characteristics. The tubes have known internal diameters and lengths that can be manufactured with standard tolerances, eliminating the need for complex external calibration procedures. The system serves its own calibration needs through its designed geometry rather than requiring external calibration equipment or procedures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple measurement parameters are measured simultaneously, then comprehensive process control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple measurement functions are merged into a single integrated sensing device. The first and second measurement sections share common structural elements (tubes, valves, flow meters) that can be controlled simultaneously, allowing multi-parameter measurement (surface gas velocity, froth depth, apparent density, holdup) without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing device is designed with universal components that serve multiple measurement functions. The same tube structure and flow measurement system can measure different parameters (gas velocity, froth depth, density) by varying operational conditions, making the device multi-functional rather than requiring separate specialized instruments for each parameter.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time, accurate measurement and control of surface gas velocity and related parameters, optimizing gas flow distribution and process efficiency in flotation cells.
Implementation Method 1
both tubes, the first and second tubes, are interconnected through a differential pressure sensor, which measures the hydrostatic pressure difference continuously
Implementation Method 2
said first and second mass flow meters are low pressure drop turbine sensors
Implementation Method 3
said first and second valves are solenoid valves
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of measurement devices, specifically to devices for measuring pressure and flow as well as derived quantities, and in particular provides a sensor device for in-line measurement of superficial gas velocity, froth depth, apparent density and holdup in flotation cells, which comprises: a first tube; a second tube; a first valve connected to said first tube; a second valve connected to said second tube; a first pressure meter connected to said first tube; a second pressure meter connected to said second tube; a first mass flow meter connected to said first valve; and a second mass flow meter connected to said second valve. The present invention also provides a system for in-line measurement of superficial gas velocity in flotation cells.