In-plant optimization of a full-scale Jameson flotation cell

An optimization study has been conducted to obtain the desired separation performance and the maximum throughput capacity from a 5-meter diameter Jameson Cell operating in a coal preparation plant in the Eastern United States. The results indicate that nearly 0.8 tonne/hr-m2 of clean coal is achievable while reducing the ash content from nearly 30% to 6% for a fine coal having a d90 particle size of approximately 45 μm. The test data indicate that a significant improvement in the combustible recovery value is achievable with the increased amount of tailings recirculation although at the cost of concentrate throughput capacity. Based on empirical models developed for the plant process responses such as clean coal tonnage, product ash and product total sulfur contents, an appropriate set of operating parameter values was determined to produce a target set of separation performance and throughput capacity.