Abstract
The flotation of copper ore is a complex technological process that depends on many parameters. Therefore, it is necessary to take into account the complexity of this phenomenon by choosing a multidimensional data analysis. The paper presents the results of modelling and analysis of beneficiation process of sandstone copper ore. Considering the implementation of multidimensional statistical methods it was necessary to carry out a multi-level experiment, which included 4 parameters (size fraction, collector type and dosage, flotation time). The main aim of the paper was the preparation of flotation process models for the recovery and the content of the metal in products. A MANOVA was implemented to explore the relationship between dependent (β, ϑ, e, η) and independent (d, t, cd, ct) variables. The design of models was based on linear and nonlinear regression. The results of the variation analysis indicated the high significance of all parameters for the process. The average degree of matching of linear models to experimental data was set at 49% and 33% for copper content in the concentrate and tailings and 47% for the recovery of copper minerals in the both. The results confirms the complexity and stochasticity of the Polish copper ore flotation.
Highlights
Flotation is a method of enrichment used to distribute grains, which differ in their surface properties
The paper presents the results of a multidimensional analysis and modelling of copper content and recovery in products of sandstone copper ore originating from Polkowice Copper Preparation Plant
Based on multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) results at a 95% confidence level, it was found that all investigated factors significantly affected the flotation of copper ore
Summary
Flotation is a method of enrichment used to distribute grains, which differ in their surface properties. The main factors that determine the final result in terms of high yield and content of the minerals in the concentrate can be divided into 3 groups: feed properties, flotation device characteristics and enrichment methods. What causes an additional difficulty of Polish copper ores beneficiation is their complex structure and the presence of three lithological types: dolomite, sandstone and shale, varied internally. These lithological fractions appear simultaneously in most parts of the deposit, but in varying proportions. Other characteristics that differentiate the individual lithological fractions are the enrichment and copper content of the feed. Sandstone type exhibits the greatest floatability and the lowest content of copper
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