Disturbance propagation through a grinding-flotation circuit

Abstract

The propagation of common disturbances in a grinding circuit connected to a flotation circuit and the effects of these disturbances on flotation cell levels were simulated and analysed. The disturbances include changes in the mineral ore feed as well as a step change in the cyclone operating condition and spillage water added to the sump. The effect of the disturbances on the cell levels remains relatively small, but it is clear that multivariable control is required to prevent the propagation of the disturbances through the cells. The simulation of a grinding-flotation circuit is useful to simulate the effects of disturbance propagation and will be helpful when designing plant-wide controllers.