In gold ore processing plants with flotation circuits, the operator must routinely check and adjust the flotation circuit process variables to optimize the gold flotation process results. The ability to make these adjustments consistently, in the correct direction and of the proper magnitude, distinguishes an average flotation operator from an excellent flotation operator. Basically, this operator task covers the walk-through, check, and adjustment of the flotation process. It includes both process and equipment checks.
It is important to mention that an experienced flotation operator makes and responds to numerous process observations by adjusting certain process variables. Many of these observations may not be apparent to the inexperienced flotation operator. Some of these observations include changes in the color of the froth, changes in the shine on the froth bubble surface, changes in the froth bubble size, and alterations in the slurry viscosity. The experienced flotation operator may respond to these changes with slight changes in flotation reagent dosage, slurry density, or air flow rate to the cells. Learning to recognize the changes in the flotation circuit as they begin to happen helps the flotation operator keep up with circuit changes. This is the type of response level every new flotation operator must practice.
Basically, the process of learning to read plant changes begins when the basic techniques such as monitoring the flotation circuit assays, setting the reagent dosage rates, maintaining the cell levels properly, and setting the correct air flow rate, are being learned. The process of learning to read these changes is accelerated by working with an experienced gold flotation operator. Learning to read the circuit conditions can be accomplished individually by a patient flotation operator. In either case, all operators must keep a personal log book to keep track of the circuit changes experienced, the response to the change, and the result of each response. This log book is a real asset when a previously encountered circuit change occurs again.
The gold flotation circuit must be checked by the operator