Abstract
In the optimization of platinum group metal flotation plants, various parameters are considered in order to achieve the desired recovery and grade of the precious metals. There should be a balance in the operating parameters so as to produce a high-grade valuable mineral concentrate without compromising recovery. This project seeks to investigate the individual and interactive effect of flotation reagents at different dosages, using a full factorial experimental design approach with two factors at six levels. Laboratory tests were conducted to illustrate the effect of frother and depressant on flotation. The results were analysed using SPSS and MiniTab. Based on the F-test at 95% confidence level, the frother had no significant effect on the concentrate grade but had a significant effect on 4E recovery, mass pull, and water recovery. The depressant had a significant effect on concentrate grade, water recovery, and mass pull. The interactive effect of frother and depressant had significant negative effect on all responses except concentrate grade. The optimum levels for recovery and grade were analysed assuming equal importance of grade and recovery as well as double importance for grade.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 65-69 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy |
Volume | 118 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jan 2018 |
Keywords
- Depressant
- Flotation reagents
- Froth flotation
- Frother
- Interactive effect
- PGMs
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
- Metals and Alloys
- Materials Chemistry