LABORATORY FLOTATION SEPARATION OF INCO BULK MATTE

Laboratory batch flotation tests were performed on a sample of bulk sl ow cooled converter matte (Cu:Ni = 1) to optimize the time in each of the separation stages. Numerical simulations were carried out to estim ate a continuous circuit material balance for the conditions selected. Art experimental simulation of a continuous circuit (locked cycle tes t) readily came to steady state and there was reasonable agreement bet ween the numerical and experimental results. The use of nitrogen as th e flotation gas and the addition of collector to the grinding mill min imized the oxidation of chalcocite, which has previously resulted in i ncreasing circulating loads, and led to a stable circuit with very low weights in the recycle streams. Copyright (C) 1996 Published by Elsev ier Science Ltd