A dynamic flotation model for predictive control incorporating froth physics. Part I: Model development

It is widely accepted that the implementation of model-based predictive controllers (MPC) ensures optimal operation if an accurate model process available. In case froth flotation, modelling for control purposes a challenging task due to inherent instabilities. Most models have only focused on pulp phase rather than phase, which usually oversimplified or even neglected. Despite fact stability can significantly affect overall performance flotation cells, there still gap in literature regarding properly include physics. this paper we describe development dynamic suitable control, incorporating equations physics froths. Unlike other literature, proposed here includes important variables related stability, such as bursting rate and air recovery, well simplified calculate recovery entrainment. These allow estimating amount valuable material reporting concentrate, be used proxy estimate grade recovery. Additionally, pulp-froth interface was also included our model, enables more prediction relevant variables. A sensitivity analysis parameters showed two out seven were highly sensitive. The sensitive are exponential factor n equation overflowing bubble size, constant value rate. Although reasonably lower a, results revealed significant difference accuracy poorly estimated. Further simulations exhibited good adaptability changes typical variables, feed flowrates. An degrees freedom established need fixed completely determined system. This means available purposes, tailings flowrates (through manipulation respective valves). study therefore paves way robust phenomena.