Improving the Flotation of Fine Coal Slurries

Abstract

The properties of fine coal slurries at OOO MMK-Ugol and their flotation are studied. To improve the flotation of finely disperse coal slurries, more effective reagent combinations are employed; TPA collection agent and Sinterol flocculant are considered. In the laboratory, optimal flotation conditions are developed for fine coal slurries. In these conditions, coal enrichment is more efficient thanks to decrease in the loss of organic mass with the flotation wastes. In addition, the reagent consumption is decreased by a factor of 2–3. The effectiveness of Sinterol flocculant is confirmed by industrial tests at OOO MMK-Ugol. Supplying Sinterol at a rate of 1 × 10–3—3 ×10–3 kg/t of coal in the course of flotation increases the yield of concentrate, while also decreasing its ash content by 1.5–2.0%. That decreases the loss of organic mass with the flotation wastes. Increase in the ash content of the flotation wastes by 8.3–13.8% also decreases the loss of organic mass with the wastes.