Synergistic effects of Reflux Flotation Cell's downcomer and reverse fluidization bed in rejecting clay entrainment during particle separation

Abstract

The Reflux Flotation Cell (RFC) technology is heralded as an innovative game-changer, promising significant advancements in particle separation, and offering generational benefits for the resources industry. This paper meticulously assessed the RFC's capabilities in tackling another critical industry challenge in resources processing— severe entrainment of waste clay particles during flotation separation and compared the performance with conventional mechanical flotation. Through flotation tests where kaolinite particles were separated from combustible materials, in-situ particle aggregation measurements and calculating air fractions in both flotation systems, this study identified the superior performance of the RFC in reducing kaolinite entrainment and producing a high product quality. This was attributed to a synergistic function between the RFC's downcomer for kaolinite dispersion and the RFC's fluidization bed for generating a low air fraction in reducing kaolinite entrainment. While kaolinite dispersion avoided the blocking of water drainage channels between air bubbles by aggregates, a low air fraction ensured a large gap between air bubbles to allow the displacement of entrained fine particles with fluidization water. Herein, the research findings will guide the resources industry to process low quality resources by successfully rejecting clay and other fine waste materials.