A probabilistic equation for flotation simulation

In froth flotation the individual particles have a probability of reporting to the concentrate by either attachment or entrainment. The net result of these probabilities is the observed mineral recovery. A probabilistic equation is presented to calculate the overall recovery in a unit from the mechanisms of attachment and entrainment, by assuming that these mechanisms are independent. rm of the derived equation differs from that of Savassi (2005) and these differences are discussed. It is demonstrated that, for typical operating conditions and given a typical simulation fitting methodology, the equations are effectively equivalent. r, consideration of attachment and entrainment as independent mechanisms yields an elegant derivation, a mathematically tractable solution and permits a more powerful and general approach to the calculation of solids recovery in different flotation units.