Increasing selectivity in coal flotation by controlling impeller speed and collector concentration

Abstract

Batch flotation experiments were conducted using a bituminous coal. It was found out that pulp density and especially impeller speed had significant influences on coal flotation performance, selectivity and rate. Products with lower ash content were obtained at lower speed-higher kerosene concentration levels at the same recovery. Increased flotation rates for coal at higher kerosene concentrations were probably the reason for better selectivity at lower impeller speeds.