ABSTRACT
Froth flotation is a widely used high efficient separation method in mineral processing. As the carrier of fines, the foam plays a decisive role in froth flotation process. But in the fines processing, it is a negative factor because it not only takes 1/3 space of fines pool but also frequently leads to the “gas erosion” phenomenon in the transfer pump. Furthermore, it can influence the concentration of fines, making it difficult for fines to be dewatered. This paper, based on the characteristics and theory of generation and coalition of bubble, discusses the defoaming methods in flotation fines, especially the action mechanism and effect of the ultrasonic method to lay a foundation for the application of ultrasonic wave method in defoaming.
