The prediction of carrying capacity for a given flotation technology has be
en commonly achieved using a simplified expression based on a representativ
e particle size and density of the floatable material. However, this expres
sion was derived with several assumptions and limited data ranges that limi
ts accuracy for all materials and conditions. A new expression has been der
ived which incorporates the effects of particle size distribution and aerat
ion rate. To evaluate the accuracy of the new expression, laboratory, pilot
and full-scale data obtained from treating various US coals using the Jame
son Cell have been applied to the model. A statistical analysis reveals tha
t the new model provides significant improvement in the carrying capacity p
rediction. Based on Jameson Cell data, aeration rates below 1.8 cm/s have a
significant impact on the carrying capacity. Particle size distribution, w
hich was not included in the earlier expression, was found to significantly
affect the carrying capacity by approximately 35% from a narrow to broad s
ize distribution. An analysis, using the mineral data applied to validate t
he earlier expression, has shown that the new model can be extended to all
other column flotation technologies treating feed material other than coal.
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