Developing an Experimental Model to Estimate The Dispersion Number for a Pilot Flotation Column In Sarcheshmeh Copper Complex

Two empirical models are presented in order to determine the dispersion number and mean residence time for the pilot scale column cell in the Sarcheshmeh copper complex. To check the accuracy of these models a series of continuous flotation tests were also performed. Mixing condition and residence time distribution were also evaluated in the column. Continuous kinetic tests and examination of the model accuracy were also performed at three different residence times. Empirical equations developed for the prediction of the dispersion number cannot be generalized to every situation, but using this model one can develop an empirical relationship to be applied for the pilot scale column in Sarcheshmeh, the result of which is in good correlation with those obtained from RTD tests. By comparing the recovery from a mixing condition and that obtained from continuous kinetic tests, the accuracy of the empirical equation was shown.