Column flotation technology — NML experience

National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML) Madras Centre by its extensive R&D efforts over two decades had developed the column flotation technology for the beneficiation of low grade minerals. The Centre made pioneering efforts in demonstrating the technology by installing laboratory/pilot scale flotation columns and conducting extensive feasibility studies at the plant premises of various mineral beneficiation industries in our country which lead to its commercialization. The first plant was set up in the year 2005 for sillimanite beneficiation and is operating successfully. As on date three commercial columns are under operation based on NML technology. Present paper presents the chronological development of the technology starting from laboratory scale.