Double‐sensor conductivity probe applied in a flotation system

Abstract

AbstractThis study proposed a new approach for measuring bubble size distribution, bubble mean diameter, Sauter mean bubble diameter, and gas holdup using a double‐sensor conductivity probe in an air/water two‐phase system bubble column. The results for the two‐phase system were compared and calibrated using analyses from bubble images taken by a digital camera from the side of the column wall. Good agreement was observed between the two techniques. The same double‐sensor conductivity was used in an air/water/solids three‐phase system. The conductivity probe captured the change in bubble dynamic behaviour inside the pulp phase; however, the presence of the solids made it more challenging to measure. As a result, the VisioFroth commercial package, using images taken from the top of the froth layer, could be used in conjunction with the double‐sensor conductivity probe to show the dynamic evolution of mineralized bubbles from the pulp zone to the froth zone in a flotation process.