Test and evaluation of flotation performance by new generation of flotation fluid dynamics characteristic threshold sensor system

For a long time, research on flotation fluid dynamics has been limited to the fields of surface chemistry and fluid mechanics, neglecting the analysis of the control mechanisms, dynamic characteristics, and control models of flotation fluid dynamics from a control perspective, and lacking in-depth analysis and summary of bubble motion behavior. In response to the above issues, Chinalco Research Institute of Science and Technology Co., Ltd. has taken the lead in creating a new benchmark tool for key parameters of flotation fluid dynamics for solid-liquid gas three-phase flow. A new generation of flotation fluid dynamics characteristic threshold sensor system has been developed and formed. By measuring core parameters such as apparent gas velocity of flotation equipment and flotation circuit from multiple dimensions, starting from the movement behavior and regulation mechanism of flotation bubbles, the regulation mechanism, strategy and model of flotation fluid dynamics have been established, forming an advanced and reliable control method for flotation fluid dynamics. A matching flotation fluid dynamics characteristic threshold sensor system has been designed and built to improve the flotation theoretical system. The advancement of flotation equipment and processes, as well as the promotion of effective separation and utilization of fine and micro fine minerals, are of great significance. By using a new generation of flotation fluid dynamics threshold sensor system, a correlation model between key operational variables such as frother type and concentration, superficial gas velocity, altitude （above sea level）, slurry viscosity, and flotation fluid dynamics parameters such as bubble size （D₃₂） and bubble surface area flux （S_b） is established for the first time. Through model simulation verification in the beneficiation plant, it has been proven that the new generation of fluid dynamics characteristic threshold sensors have the ability to accurately test and evaluate flotation performance.