Modifications to Flotation Cells to Improve Metallurgical Performance at Falconbridge Nickel Mines Concentrators

"This paper describes mechanical and operating modifications that were and are being made to current on-line flotation cells at Falconbridge Nickel Mines concentrators. Improved metallurgical performance and metal recoveries of some 3·4% over the past ten years are the end result of the modifications made. The paper acknowledges the contribution of operating, technical and maintenance personnel and the Company ""suggestion plan"" program. 1. INTRODUCTIONFalconbrirdge Nickel Mines Limited, incorporated in 1928 is a major product of nickel, copper,coba1t and other metals and minerals. The Canadian Nickel Division operating facilities in the Sudbury Area currently includes seven mines, two concentrators, and a smelter.For many years at all concentrators, improv0mcnts in metal recoveries have been continually under investigation. One area was to improve the flotation cell performance. This paper will deal with mechanical and operating modifications to the cells at the Strathcona and Falconhridge Ni-Cu sulphide concentrators, at the Sudbury Operations.One of the prime means to mineral beneficiation processing has been, and will continue to be, the basic froth flotation cell. The efficient operation of a flotation cell is the key to satisfactory metal selectivity and recovery. The essence of good design is simplicity. Changes to cell design can contribute to a significant improvement in metal recovery.Over the past 10 years, modifications to the flotation cells have contributed to an improvement of some 3-4” in mineral recovery. Providi11g tl1c initiative for improvements include operating, maintenance and technical personnel, as well as the employee suggestions submitted th1·ough the Suggestion Plan Program."