A lead ore flotation machine (or flotation cell) is a crucial piece of equipment in mineral processing, designed to separate valuable lead minerals from gangue (waste material) using the froth flotation technique. Below is a detailed breakdown of its function, types, and key considerations:
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1. Working Principle of Lead Ore Flotation
– Pulp Conditioning: Crushed and ground lead ore is mixed with water and reagents to form a slurry.
– Aeration & Frothing: Air is pumped into the flotation cell, creating bubbles.
– Selective Attachment: Hydrophobic (water-repellent) lead minerals (e.g., galena, PbS) attach to air bubbles and rise to the surface as froth.
– Froth Removal: The froth (concentrate) is skimmed off, while hydrophilic gangue sinks.
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2. Types of Flotation Machines for Lead Ore
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# (1) Mechanical Flotation Cells
– Use an impeller to agitate the slurry and disperse air.
– Common types:
– Denver Flotation Cell
– Wemco Flotation Cell
– Outokumpu Flotation Cell
# (2).jpg)
eumatic Flotation Cells
– Rely on external air blowers instead of impellers (e.g., Jameson Cell).
# (3) Column Flotation Cells
– Tall, cylindrical design for finer particle separation.
– Improved selectivity for complex lead-zinc ores.
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3. Key Factors for Efficient Lead Flotation
– Reagents:
– *Collectors* (e.g., xanthates) enhance hydrophobicity of galena.
– *Frothers* (e.g., pine oil) stabilize bubbles.
– *Depressants* (e.g., sodium cyanide, zinc sulfate) suppress unwanted minerals like pyrite.
– *pH Modifiers* (lime to maintain alkaline pH ~8–10).
– Particle Size: Optimal grinding (~150–200 µm) ensures liberation of lead minerals.
– Airflow Rate: Controls bubble size and froth stability.
– Retention Time: Longer residence improves recovery but may reduce grade.
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4. Advantages of Froth Flotation for Lead Ore
– High selectivity for fine particles.
– Adjustable parameters for varying ore grades.
– Can process sulfide