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Abstract The mixing behavior of flotation cells has been studied using the approach of modeling and simulation. A derivation hitherto unpublished is presented for the develop¬ment of a comprehensive mathematical model. This model describes the mixing behavior of a flotation cell, or any other continuous stirred tank reactor, in terms of an active zone, a dynamic dead water zone, a bypassing stream. and all possible combinations thereof. When multi¬ple-cell banks with partial baffling were considered, the same model was applied to individual cells and a recycle stream was superimposed between each two cells. The residence time distribution function is hence expressed as a multi-parameter model. The various parameters determine the relative volumes of the various zones and the streams in the model. Experimental residence time distributions were determined, using stimulus-response techniques, and simulated using the proposed model under various operating conditions. The effects of some operating conditions on the model parameters were studied in a single cell. The effects of bank length, flow rate, degree of baffling, and type of feed on the system’s performance are discussed. |