The problem that most flotation operators have in learning their job (after reading the Job Description) isn’t with the flow sheet or the mechanical equipment. It is how to recognize the effects that the variables have on each other. The main operating tool that any operator has to use is their own five senses and a healthy dose of curiosity. By observing how the flotation cells are operating the operator will take all of the clues that he is able to recognize and by applying reason, attempt to figure out what is happening in the cells. What we are going to do here is show you different clues as to how your circuit is operating, and the different variables that could cause those effects.

Everything from the first crusher, until you ship your final product, is a balance between all of the things that are changeable. If one of these things, I term them variables, are out of balance, with any of the other variables, you will not be getting the most out of your circuit.

Let us start by listing the different areas that the operator will watch for a change in, and then go through those and list the changes and what to expect from them.

• TONNAGE
• DENSITY
• ORE CHANGE
• REAGENTS
• FROTH
• CIRCUIT