A conceptual flotation circuit for fine coal processing based on combination of the tree analysis and kinetic data

Abstract

In this research study, we focus on the tree test results as well as the first-order kinetic model to evaluate flotation test data to propose a conceptual design of a flotation circuit for a specific coal sample. Results from the tree test showed it was possible to achieve a product with ash content less than 10% with 8% as combustible recovery and indicated for this coal sample, to obtain low ash – low recovery condition. Kinetic test results showed some of the streams had the same constant, so it could combine streams with similar rates according to configuration aspects. The proposed circuit includes stages (1- rougher, 2- rougher -scavenger, 3- cleaner, 4- cleaner -scavenger, and 5-recleaner) and recleaner concentrate indicated as the final product and rougher -scavenger tailings and cleaner -scavenger tailings also indicated as a final tailing. It is worth noting the proposed circuit is a conceptual design, so the validation of data on a larger scale for the obtainment of the optimized circuit is crucial.