PARAMETER AND CONFIGURATION OPTIMIZATION OF FLOTATION CIRCUITS .2. A NEW APPROACH

This paper extends the flowsheet optimization algorithm given by Yingl ing (Int. J. Miner. Process., 29: 149-174) for application to paramete r and configuration optimization of froth flotation circuits. The proc edure uses individual cell models and optimizes bank interconnection c onfiguration, number of cells per bank, and cell design and control pa rameters. The designer has flexibility in whether to consider split st ream interconnections among the banks or whether to restrict the desig n to single stream interconnections. Experience with the procedure sug gests that if the designer formulates an initial network superstructur e that provides for adequate residence time in the various banks of th e circuit, solutions involving split stream interconnections will seld om be optimum.