Development of a Statistical Model for Selective Flocculation of Iron Ore Slimes

Abstract

In this study, an attempt has been made to identify the significant factors that affect the selective flocculation of iron ore slimes using full factorial design. For this purpose three factors pH, pulp density and the flocculant dose were investigated. A 2 3 factorial design was employed and the results were analysed statistically. The result indicated that the pH, pulp density and their interactions significantly affect the grade of the concentrate.Regression model using the design matrix showed that the predicted values are in well agreement with experimental values for grade and recovery. From the studies, it was possible to enhance the grade to 62.78% Fe with a recovery of 84.23% at pH 10, pulp density 1% and a flocculant dose of 0.03 mg/g.