An experimental study of the effects of froth height on flotation of china clay

Abstract

An experimental study of the effects of froth height on flotation kinetics and product grade during flotation of china clay is carried out. Pulp phase and recovery kinetics are evaluated experimentally by using a novel technique which allows kinetic measurements in both pulp and froth phases. The pulp phase kinetics are analyzed using a distributed-rate model, and the sensitivity of the parameters of this model to froth height discussed in terms of froth drainage. An evaluation of individual component recovery and product grade reveals that total recovery decreases, whilst the grade of the product improves with froth height. Drainage rates of the different components of china clay are calculated, and the results demonstrate that the gangue component quartz drains at a higher rate than either kaolinite or mica. These effects of froth height are discussed in terms of the underlying drainage mechanisms in the froth.