Model of automatic control system for process of pulp mixing before flotation

Abstract

The paper provides a brief overview of researches on automation of flotation beneficiation. The main disadvantages of existing systems and methods for regulating parameters of this process have been revealed, which consist in low speed, errors in determining control action, and incapability of stabilizing pulp density in a mixer. In this connection, a conclusion is made about the relevance of development of an ACS for the process of pulp mixing before flotation, which will allow maintaining the specified density at a given level. Modeling using Matlab Simulink software package was chosen as the research method. At the same time, mathematical description of such elements of the ACS model as the valve, the mixer, the pump, the PID controller is given. The modeling provided time diagrams reflecting the principle of the pulp density stabilization by manipulating the flow of water into the mixer with abrupt change in the pulp solid phase density and flow. Conclusions are given on the possibility of using the ACS as part of an automated process control system at mining enterprises, since the system model operation showed satisfactory results in density control with small readjustment and low control time.

Keywords

• flotation
• mixer
• floatability
• aeration
• concentrate
• tailings
• training sample
• valve
• regulator
• density meter