Coarse particle flotation & regrind circuit

The coarse particle flotation and regrind circuit has a profound impact on our MissionZero ambitions. It enables upstream and downstream unit operations to perform in more efficient ways to further the goals of MissionZero beyond the flotation circuit itself.

This means optimised grinding is possible. This ensures application of energy input only to where it is needed, allowing for the rejection of barren oversize material that does not require fine grinding. No direct equipment energy input is required, and along with an order of magnitude reduction in flotation air requirements, energy demand for the flotation circuit itself is also reduced. In this way, the flotation circuit enables energy savings plant wide.

Additionally, coarser grind size facilitates dewatering and allows for quicker water recovery. Water that traditionally would be lost due to evaporation and seepage no longer end up in tailing and a larger proportion of water can be recovered within minutes versus hours or days.

What is coarseAIR™?

coarseAIR™ is a low turbulence, aerated fluidised bed separator combined with lamella plates based on the REFLUX™ Classifier. The technology is able to float larger particle sizes (up to approx. 650 micron) enabling an increase in target grind size and offering significant sustainability and process benefits. It provides excellent efficiency through improved resource utilisation – not only in terms of air, water and energy but of the mineral resource itself.