Flotation behaviour in reflux flotation cell – A critical review

Abstract

• The roles of three major components of the Reflux Flotation Cell are introduced. • The flux mechanism formed in the boundary of major components is discussed. • Three theories adapted to characterise the Reflux Flotation Cell were explained. • The operating parameters of the Reflux Flotation Cell were evaluated. • Future research directions on the Reflux Flotation Cell are recommended. The development of new flotation equipment has to address the challenges confronting the minerals industry, the low flotation efficiency of fine and coarse particles and the need to process a higher volume of ores due to the decreased feed grades. By combining a downcomer, a fluidised bed and inclined channels within one equipment, the Reflux Flotation Cell (RFC) offers a general solution to improving fine and coarse particle flotation while maintaining a high throughput. Current research on the RFC has proven its success in coal flotation. Based on the published research work, this paper introduces the history of RFC development, illustrates the unique structure of the RFC and the role of each major component, discusses the flux mechanism formed in the boundary between the fluidised bed and inclined channel section, explains the main theories adapted to characterise the RFC and evaluates the effect of the operating parameters on its performance. This information provides a general picture of the RFC from both theoretical and practical perspectives. This paper also recommends future research on the RFC to expand its application from coal flotation to minerals flotation and also model the bubble motion in inclined channels and the flux mechanism in the boundary area, both of which dictate the performance of the RFC.