MLA-based sphalerite flotation optimization: Two-stage roughing
In this paper, an optimized flotation approach, two-stage roughing process, was introduced for improving sphalerite performance based on its mineral liberation characteristics. Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA), lab-scale and plant-scale flotation tests, and particle size analysis were used to obtai...
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Published in | Powder technology Vol. 343; pp. 586 - 594 |
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Main Authors | , , , , |
Format | Journal Article |
Language | English |
Published |
Lausanne
Elsevier B.V
01.02.2019
Elsevier BV |
Subjects | |
Online Access | Get full text |
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Summary: | In this paper, an optimized flotation approach, two-stage roughing process, was introduced for improving sphalerite performance based on its mineral liberation characteristics. Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA), lab-scale and plant-scale flotation tests, and particle size analysis were used to obtain the properties of sphalerite liberation and the particle size distribution. Experimental results showed that the two-stage roughing operation contributed to the sphalerite flotation regarding two aspects: (i) timely pre-separating the well liberated sphalerite to decrease overgrinding; (ii) selectively collecting the poorly liberated zinc minerals for further liberation, which enhanced the regrinding efficiency. Moreover, these advantages were systematically verified from the lab-scale investigation to the plant-scale application. The plant-scale flotation tests showed that the modified two-stage roughing process improved the zinc concentrate grade and zinc recovery by almost 1% and 0.7%, respectively.
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•Two-stage roughing flotation performs better on sphalerite separation than single-stage.•It pre-separates well liberated sphalerite and enhances the liberation efficiency.•Multiscale tests confirm its contributions on improving sphalerite flotation performance. |
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ISSN: | 0032-5910 1873-328X |
DOI: | 10.1016/j.powtec.2018.11.085 |