Optimization of gas parameters in a three-phase fluidized bed flotation column

• Published in: Powder technology Vol. 373; pp. 242 - 253
• Main Authors: Liu, Taishan, Li, Yanfeng, He, Shengrong, Chen, Peng, Li, Zhengyong
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lausanne Elsevier B.V 01.08.2020; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: Area; Bubble diameter; Bubble surface area flux; Bubbles; Buffer zones; Diameters; Flotation; Flotation column; Fluidized beds; Gas holdup; Gas-liquid-solid three-phase fluidized bed; Mineralization; Optimization; Parameters; Pressure drop; Velocity; Gas holdup; Bubble surface area flux; Flotation column; Bubble diameter; Gas-liquid-solid three-phase fluidized bed
• ISSN: 0032-5910; 1873-328X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2020.06.058

The gas parameters, including gas holdup, bubble diameter and bubble specific surface area flux, of a three-phase fluidized bed flotation column (TFC) have been systematically studied. According to the characteristics of each stage of flotation the TFC is designed into three parts, the fluidized mineralization area, the buffer zone and the circulation section, and the solid particles are introduced into the fluidized mineralization area as regulatory factor. The gas holdup was calculated by measuring bed pressure drop, and the bubble diameter was measured by the conductivity probe method. Experimental parameters, including superficial gas velocity, superficial liquid velocity, solid particle type, frother concentration and initial static bed height, were studied. Experimental results show that the gas parameters can be optimized by changing experimental parameters. The models of gas parameters of the TFC have been derived. Experimental results have been compared with those in the relevant literature. [Display omitted] •A new three-phase flotation column is proposed.•Gas parameters are systematically studied in an independent experimental system.•Mathematical models for predicting gas parameters are presented.•The optimized conditions of gas environment for flotation were studied.•The variation and relation of gas parameters are studied and analyzed systematically.