Developments in the control of flotation columns

Abstract The methods used currently for the control of flotation columns are summarised. The major deficiency of these methods is that they rely on inaccurate and indirect measurements of slurry-froth interface level and bias flowrate (the net downward flowrate of water through the froth phase). This generally means that excess wash water is added, with reduction in slurry residence time and column capacity. More accurate measurement of these two variables, obtained from measurements of the temperature distribution in the froth phase, are described. Control schemes based on these measurements are discussed.