Fuzzy Control of Column Flotation at Toyoha Mines

摘要

The application of fuzzy logic to control concentrate grades in zinc cleaning column flotation was studied. Rules of thumb of the operation were obtained by interviewing operators. There are many variables to consider in the column flotation, but the initial strategy of the operators is to control the concentrate grade by adjusting the air flow rate. A fuzzy controller was developed based on this main rule of thumb and limiting rules for the tailings grade were added. A more stable and higher concentrate grade was obtained with the fuzzy controller. The total recovery was also satisfactory compared with manual operation. The fuzzy controller was further improved by the addition of rules of pulp level control.