Patent ID: 6059118
Filing Date: 2000-05-09
Classification: B03D

Abstract:
A process for recovering fine particles, comprising the steps of:forming an aerated slurry by injecting air bubbles into a slurry of fine particles comprising particulates selected from the group consisting of minerals, metal, ore, and oil;feeding said aerated slurry of fine particles and gaseous bubbles in a downward direction into a stationary downfeeder;rotating and separating said aerated slurry in a centrifuge into a waste stream comprising non-floating, gangue material and a particulate-enriched froth comprising gaseous bubbles carrying a substantial portion of said particulates, said centrifuge having a bottom positioned below said downfeeder and a sidewall extending upwardly and outwardly from said bottom;floating said particulate-enriched froth in a flotation chamber positioned between said downfeeder and said sidewall of said centrifuge, said flotation chamber having an upright wall providing a wier extending to a height above said sidewall of said centrifuge;discharging said froth from said flotation chamber via a discharge chute connected to said weir and spaced above said sidewall of said centrifuge;passing said waste stream comprising said non-floating gangue material through an annular passageway between said sidewall of said centrifuge and said flotation chamber and then through a gangue-receiving chamber between an upright housing wall of a housing and said sidewall of said centrifuge;discharging said waste stream comprising said non-floating gangue material along an inclined floor and an outlet of said housing, said outlet positioned at a level below said centrifuge; andsaid centrifuge being rotated by a motor via a shaft extending through said downfeeder and connected to the bottom of said centrifuge.