Dynamic simulation development and application to sulphide flotation circuits

Abstract

A flotation model, based on the two phase kinetic model, has been developed. The model describes the behaviour of hydrophobic and entrained particles and water.A description of the effect of bubble loading on flotation rate coefficients is central to the flotation model. Using this model, one set of model parameters was used to describe total circuit behaviour.A dynamic flotation simulation program was written which uses a numerical integration technique to solve the differential equations involved. The structure of the program was designed in such a manner that it represented an actual flotation circuit with associated data logging and automatic control programs.Flotation data which typified the dynamic and steady state response of sulphide flotation. circuits to a variety of disturbances were collected. The dynamic simulation program was used to simulate the circuits studied, accurately reproducing the observed circuit behaviour. The results verified both the flotation model and the dynamic simulation technique employed.The information gained from the circuit surveys was further used to identify the possibilities and problems associated with automatic control of sulphide flotation circuits. Control strategies were developed aimed at controlling the last processing stage (cleaner) of the circuits first. The operation of the cleaner stages was used to identify the operating objectives of earlier processing stages.The information gained from the control studies was used to identify areas in which the dynamic simulation program could assist with control strategy development. Control strategies were tested with the dynamic simulation program indicating the general usefulness of such a technique. Areas of further study are discussed.