The distribution law of coarse particles in coal flotation and its density-size partition surface model

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the process of coal preparation, large particles are often misplaced into the flotation feedings due to poor classification, and thus bring about negative effects on flotation results. In this paper, batch flotation tests of 0.5–2.5 mm were carried out at different reagent dosage to quantitatively analyze the effect of particle size and density on flotation. Flotation partition curves in corresponding conditions were plotted based on sizing analysis and float-and-sink tests of flotation products. Generalized skew-normal distribution model based on quartile was used to fit the experimental data and the variation rules of separation density, probable error and skewness, etc. with particle size and reagents were obtained, and the density-size partition surface mathematical model was established. The results show that floating ratio decreases with density and particle size. The separation density and probable error both decreases with particle size. The values of skewness were negative and tended to 0 with the decreasing of particle size. As the dosage of reagents increased, the separation density increased, the probable error increased slightly, and the difference of absolute values of skewness decreased. The research results put forward the theoretical instruction of expanding the upper limit of floatable size of particles and improving flotation efficiency.