Modelling for froth flotation control: A review
File(s)
Accepted version
Author(s)
Quintanilla, Paulina
Neethling, Stephen J
Brito-Parada, Pablo R
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Flotation is a conceptually simple operation; however, as a multiphase process with inherent instability, it exhibits complex dynamics. One of the most efficient ways to increase flotation performance is by implementing advanced controllers, such as Model Predictive Control (MPC). This type of controller is very dependent on the model that represents the dynamics of the process. Although model development is one of the most crucial parts in MPC, flotation models have been mainly developed for simulation purposes (i.e. analysis and design) rather than control purposes. This paper presents a critical literature review on modelling for froth flotation control. Models reviewed have been sub-classified as empirical, phenomenological and hybrid according to their characteristics. In particular, it is highlighted that models have so far primarily focused on the pulp phase, with the froth phase often neglected; when the froth phase is included, kinetics models such as those used for the pulp phase, are commonly used to represent it. Froth physics are, however, dominated by processes such as coalescence, liquid motion and solids motion, which have been previously modelled through complex, steady-state models used for simulation purposes, rather than control purposes. There remains a need to develop appropriate models for the froth phase and more complex models for the pulp phase that can be used as part of MPC strategies. The challenges associated with the development of such models are discussed, with the aim of providing a pathway towards better controlled froth flotation circuits.
Date Issued
2021-03-01
Date Acceptance
2020-11-28
Citation
Minerals Engineering, 2021, 162
ISSN
0892-6875
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Journal / Book Title
Minerals Engineering
Volume
162
Copyright Statement
© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. This manuscript is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Licence http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Identifier
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0892687520305380?via%3Dihub
Subjects
0306 Physical Chemistry (incl. Structural)
0904 Chemical Engineering
0914 Resources Engineering and Extractive Metallurgy
Mining & Metallurgy
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
106718
Date Publish Online
2020-12-29