Release Analysis Response to Sized Feeds and Reagent Types

Abstract

Release analysis is considered as flotation washability that predicts the limit of separation at any ash level. Three sized feeds, -0.5 mm, -0.25 mm and -0.1 mm of same coal were subjected to release analysis to characterize the flotation response using different reagent combinations. Response of coal reflected by release curves toward reagents was found to be different for all the three feeds. No single combination of collector and frother could deliver the maximum separation at entire ash range for all the three feeds. Significant yields could be obtained at 13-17% ash level. Release curve was found to be sensitive to feed size and reagent types indicating that clean coal ash requirement would dictate the application of reagents.