Inverted Reflux Classifier for Slurry Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional froth flotation methods are inefficient in separating low density particles from feed slurries, particularly in removing hydrophilic particles and achieving uniform wash water distribution, leading to contamination and suboptimal product cleanliness.
Innovation Solution
The method involves a fully inverted reflux classifier with an upper fluidisation chamber and controlled wash water introduction, allowing low density particles to form a concentrated suspension that is removed at a controlled rate, while denser particles are removed from the lower end, utilizing parallel inclined channels and valves to manage particle density and flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional froth flotation methods are used, then low density particles can be separated from feed slurries, but the separation efficiency is insufficient and hydrophilic particles cannot be effectively removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional flotation chamber configuration by placing the fluidised bed at the top and inclined channels at the bottom. This inversion allows wash water to be introduced at the top and flow downward through the fluidised bed of low density particles, enabling effective removal of hydrophilic particles while maintaining separation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The chamber is divided into distinct functional zones: an upper fluidisation chamber for concentrating low density particles and a lower section with inclined channels for separating denser particles. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally, improving overall separation efficiency
2Manufacturing precision
If wash water is introduced to remove contaminants, then product cleanliness improves, but uniform distribution of wash water is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the chamber configuration and introducing wash water at the top, the patent utilizes gravity to ensure uniform downward flow through the fluidised bed. This eliminates the distribution problems associated with introducing wash water from the bottom or sides in conventional designs
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined channels are positioned at specific angles and locations to optimize wash water flow distribution. The geometry of the channels and their arrangement create localized flow patterns that ensure uniform contact between wash water and particles throughout the chamber
3Manufacturing precision
If parallel inclined channels are used for particle separation, then low density particles can concentrate on the top half, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the overall device by inverting the reflux classifier configuration. The inverted design allows the fluidised bed to form naturally at the top without requiring additional complex structures, while the inclined channels at the bottom provide effective separation with simpler geometry
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
This approach enhances the separation efficiency of low density particles, allows for higher wash water rates, and effectively removes hydrophilic particles, resulting in a cleaner froth product with improved particle recovery and reduced contamination.
Implementation Method 1
allowing the slurry to flow downwardly between the inclined surfaces such that the low density particles escape the flow by sliding up lower faces of the inclined surfaces while the denser particles in the slurry slide down upper faces of the inclined surfaces
Implementation Method 2
forming an inverted fluidised bed in the chamber above the plurality of inclined surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for separating low density particles from feed slurries, a bubbly mixture is formed in a downcomer and issues into a mid region in a chamber. An inverted reflux classifier is formed by parallel inclined plates below the mid region allowing for efficient separation of low density particles which rise up to form a densely packed foam in the top of the chamber, and denser particles which fall downwardly to an outlet.