Hydrodynamic Characterization of Particle–Bubble Aggregate Transport: Bubble Load Dynamics During Vertical Ascent

Precise evaluation of flotation performance facilitates process optimization and separation efficiency enhancement, while bubble load quantification emerges as a critical diagnostic tool increasingly recognized within mineral processing research. This study introduces an enhanced bubble load measurement system that integrates equilibrium principles with vacuum suction technology. The system ensures stable and continuous sampling, significantly improving the precision and efficiency of bubble load measurements in flotation processes. Through synchronized testing in roughing and scavenging operations, dynamic variations in bubble load and their relationships with particle size and ore grade were analyzed. Results reveal contrasting trends: bubble load increased during roughing but decreased during scavenging. The distributions of particle size and mineral content carried by bubbles further highlight correlations between bubble stability and flotation efficiency. These findings provide practical guidelines for optimizing equipment design and operational parameters, demonstrating significant potential for advancing intelligent monitoring in mineral processing systems.