Double‐sensor conductivity probe applied in a flotation system

Abstract

This 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.

Bubble Size “Bimodal” Distribution Enhances Mixing and Mass Transfer in Slurry Bubbling Column Reactor

“…The conductivity probe method is a common method used to measure the behavior of bubbles in gas–liquid and gas–liquid–solid systems. It has the advantages of fast signal response and small interference to the flow field. , In this experiment, the BVW2 dual-probe conductivity probe of the Institute of Process Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, was used to measure the local gas holdup. The diameter of the probe is 0.15 mm, and it is coated with insulating materials except for the tip.…”

Introduction to the K. Nandakumar Festschrift Issue section ofCJCE

“…This special issue includes 12 contributions from researchers in Canada, India, UAE, Egypt, and Singapore. Aires et al [1] demonstrate the effectiveness of a doublesensor conductivity probe via application to a challenging industrial process-namely, the flotation system. They show that it is possible to measure bubble mean diameter, bubble size distribution, Sauter mean diameter, and gas holdup.…”