Coarse particle concentration using the HydroFloat separator

A new separator, known as the HydroFloat cell, was developed to overcome th e limitations of traditional flotation cells in recovering coarse particles . The HydroFloat cell separates particles based on differences in mass afte r the selective attachment of air bubbles to the hydrophobic component of t he feed stream. Proof-of-concept testing, utilizing phosphate matrix, heavy mineral sands and anthracite slag, indicated that significant improvements in separation efficiency can be achieved using this air-assisted teeter-be d system. Based on the encouraging laboratory results, a pilot-scale HydroF loat cell was fabricated and installed at a central Florida phosphate plant . Test data collected using the pilot-scale unit suggest that the BPL recov ery of the +35-mesh plant feed can be increased by more than 40% through th e application of this new technology. This improvement is particularly bene ficial due to the very high grade (similar to 73% BPL) of the +16-mesh part icles in the HydroFloat concentrate. This article describes the theoretical basis for the development of the HydroFloat cell and provides an overview of recent laboratory and pilot-scale test results.