Measurement of froth phase bubble sizes as a function of froth depth in flotation machines Part 1. Theoretical development and testing of a new technique.

摘要

An electro-resistivity technique for estimation of froth bubble sizes as a function of height above the pulp froth interface has been developed. Froth phase bubble size measurements were performed in a laboratory mini-flotation column. Comparison of the average intra-bubble impact distance (IID) from this new technique to the Sauter-mean diameter from the conventional photographic method established a linear correlation. The average IID from the new technique was higher than the Sauter-mean diameter with an average difference that ranges between 9% and 31%. Both techniques were able to capture the general increase in bubble sizes as a function of froth height.