Laboratory Column Flotation Cell 050D-200
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 050D-200 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Laboratory Column Flotation Cell 050D-200 is a precision-engineered bench-scale unit designed for fundamental and applied research in mineral processing, coal cleaning, and fine particle separation. Based on the proven principles of counter-current column flotation—where pulp flows downward while air bubbles rise upward—the system enables high-selectivity recovery of hydrophobic particles through controlled bubble-particle attachment kinetics and froth phase stabilization. Unlike mechanical agitation cells, this column configuration eliminates turbulent shear, promoting gentle particle-bubble interaction and minimizing entrainment of gangue material. The 7 cm (2.75 in) internal diameter acrylic column provides a well-defined flow regime suitable for rigorous parameter screening, residence time distribution analysis, and froth stability assessment. Its modular architecture supports direct scalability to pilot- and industrial-scale columns, with operational data—including air holdup, froth height, wash water rate, and feed solids concentration—transferring quantitatively to larger systems per established scale-up correlations (e.g., constant superficial gas velocity, consistent bubble size distribution, and matched froth phase residence time).
Key Features
- Electrically driven, variable-speed feed and tailings pumps for precise pulp flow control (0.5–5 L/min typical range)
- Float-switch-based automatic pulp level regulation maintaining ±2 mm positional stability within the column
- Dedicated motorized dosing pump for frother reagent delivery, calibrated for continuous low-flow injection (0.1–10 mL/min)
- Integrated mass flow meters for compressed air (0–5 L/min, ±1% FS) and wash water (0–2 L/min, ±1.5% FS), both with analog 4–20 mA outputs
- Adjustable-speed feed conditioning mixer (0–1200 rpm) ensuring homogeneous slurry preparation prior to column entry
- Patented removable sparger assembly: multi-porous ceramic or sintered stainless steel tube mounted in a quick-disconnect housing; replacement achievable without column depressurization or process interruption
- Structural construction: optical-grade acrylic column body (chemical resistance to pH 2–12, non-reactive with common collectors/frothers) with 316 stainless steel base plate, valve manifolds, and support frame
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 050D-200 accommodates slurries with particle size distributions ranging from 250 µm, including coal fines, sulfide ores (e.g., chalcopyrite, galena), oxide minerals (hematite, ilmenite), and industrial by-products such as fly ash or phosphate slimes. Feed solids concentration is adjustable from 5% to 35% w/w. All wetted components comply with FDA CFR Title 21 Part 177 for indirect food contact where applicable. Electrical design conforms to UL 508A (Industrial Control Panels) and IEC 61000-6-2/6-4 for electromagnetic compatibility. The system supports GLP-compliant operation when integrated with validated data acquisition software, enabling audit-ready records of critical process parameters per ISO/IEC 17025 and ASTM D7215 (Standard Test Method for Determining Flotation Response of Fine Coal).
Software & Data Management
While the base unit operates via analog controls and local instrumentation, it is fully compatible with third-party SCADA and LabVIEW-based acquisition platforms. Optional digital interface kits provide Modbus RTU or Ethernet/IP connectivity for real-time logging of pump speeds, flow rates, level signals, and power consumption. All sensor outputs are calibrated traceable to NIST standards. When used with compliant software, the system supports electronic signatures, user access levels, and 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trails—including timestamped parameter changes, method versioning, and raw data immutability—required for regulated QA/QC laboratories and contract research organizations.
Applications
- Optimization of collector/frother type and dosage for specific ore types
- Quantification of froth phase kinetics: drainage rate, froth stability index, and bubble coalescence behavior
- Evaluation of wash water efficiency on concentrate grade improvement
- Scale-up studies linking laboratory column performance to full-scale plant design (e.g., column height-to-diameter ratio, air rate optimization)
- Testing of novel sparger materials and configurations under controlled hydrodynamic conditions
- Training platform for metallurgical engineers and process operators in flotation fundamentals and troubleshooting
FAQ
What voltage options does the 050D-200 support?
The unit is supplied with dual-voltage capability: 110 V / 1 Ph / 60 Hz (North America) or 220 V / 1 Ph / 50 Hz (EU/Asia), configurable at installation.
Can the column be operated continuously for extended periods?
Yes—designed for unattended 72-hour test runs with stable level control, thermal management of pumps, and corrosion-resistant wetted surfaces.
Is the sparger compatible with aggressive reagents such as xanthates or MIBC?
The standard sintered stainless steel sparger exhibits full compatibility; optional alumina or silicon carbide spargers are available for highly oxidizing or acidic environments.
Does the system include calibration certificates for flow meters and level sensors?
Factory calibration certificates (traceable to NIST) are provided with each shipment; field recalibration services are available upon request.
How is froth overflow collected and measured?
A calibrated froth launder with integrated volumetric collection vessel and timed discharge enables accurate concentrate yield and grade sampling per ASTM D3927.
