Improvement of flotation circuit performance of Sungun copper complex (plant of phase 1)

In this study, the feasibility of improving the flotation circuit performance of a phase 1 of Sungun copper plant was investigated. For this purpose, circuit performance was first monitored ., It was found that in the rougher stage the some copper exists in fractions greater than 106 and smaller than 38 microns was lost. Final concentrate analysis taken on different days showed that the copper grade decreased due to the iron content increasing. Mineralogical studies also confirmed the maximum presence of pyrite in the final concentrate. Field surveys of the flotation circuit showed that there are many technical problem in the circuit that affect on the flotation process. These drawbacks including the presence of thick tubes at the surface of the re-cleaner cell, the lack of a standard pattern of wash water distribution and jet spraying. Measurement of pH in different points of the circuit showed a decrease of pH below 11 and so hydrophobicity of pyrite caused. Measurement of operating variables in the circuit showed that the wash water rate and gas rate used in the circuit were higher and lower than the values suggested by the researchers and the designer, respectively. Due to the deficiencies identified in the performance evaluation phase, laboratory tests were designed and performed in two stages using mechanical flotation cell and column flotation cell. Adjusting the gas rate and the wash water rate at the laboratory scale at the intervals suggested by the researchers resulted in the increase in 3% grade and 10% recovery.