The challenge
Measuring froth depth in flotation units
The level of froth depth in a flotation system is proportional to the amount of valuable minerals recovered.
Monitoring and controlling the level of froth depth is critical to avoid material collapse, which would otherwise disrupt the plant's productivity.
New measurement tools are needed to enable companies to accurately measure froth depth and maximise mineral recoveries.
Our response
Incorporating two methods together to accurately measure forth depth
Our researchers recently developed a system that provides more accurate detection of the froth depth in flotation units.
The new system, called InterFloat, incorporates two separate methods into a single device to provide more accurate results and overcome the limitations of individual methods that tend to produce inconsistencies.
InterFloat measures resistivity, using a CSIRO-designed probe that is capable of detecting interfaces by the nature of their properties, as well as detecting the amount of movement inside a flotation vessel.
It has specially designed circuitry to detect the motion of the froth and the pulp based on their inherent properties.
InterFloat also utilises specially-designed electrical circuitry to discern the amount of gas built up inside the flotation unit, which is important in controlling and monitoring the flotation recovery process.
The results
Greater understanding of the conditions inside floatation units
InterFloat gives greater insight into the conditions inside a floatation unit.
The froth depth and gas concentration measurements provide operators with insight into the quantity of valuable minerals recovered, as well as the option to control the process and take recovery actions in case of abnormality.
This allows companies to achieve more stable recoveries and drive productivity improvements.