Optimization of a Laboratory-Scale Froth Flotation Process Using Response Surface Methodology

ABSTRACT

Froth flotation is a universally accepted process for the beneficiation of coal fines. However, the process variables, collector dosage, frother dosage, and pulp density need to be optimized for each coal. In the present work, response surface methodology has been applied for optimization of yield at a desired ash level. Using this technique, interaction, contours, and three-dimensional diagrams have been developed to observe the behavior of the independent variables as well as interaction of the variables. A three-dimensional diagram has also been developed to visualize the behavior of the desirability function. In this paper, attempts have been made to evaluate the performance of the froth flotation process using response surface methodology.

Keywords:

• Optimization
• Froth flotation
• Coal fines
• Response surface methodology

Acknowledgments

The authors express sincere thanks to Mark S. Klima, Coal Preparation Regional Editor, for advice without which the paper could not have been accepted in Coal Preparation.

Notes

R² = 0.972, Adjusted R² = 0.945.

R² = 0.976, Adjusted R² = 0.952.