High intensity conditioning improving recovery rate and selectivity - by froth flotation of sulphidic minerals of copper, zinc, lead and silver

Selectivity and recovery in subsequent mineral processing by flotation of fine sulphidic minerals of Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Mo, Au, Ag and the Pt group metals are improved by: (a) using a high shear conditioner comprising a pulp holding tank, a high shear impeller, and a motor and drive capable of providing power draw for the impeller of 5-150 kW per m3; and (b) imparting an energy input of 1-100 kWh per m3 of pump, depending on the vol. of the tank. The holding tank is fully baffled. The impeller comprises 1-3 turbines on the same shaft, at least one of which has 3-6 blades with a steep pitch of 40-70 deg. The impeller:tank dia. ratio is 0.3-0.6. Recovery of ultrafine sulphidic minerals of (esp.) Cu and Zn, and Pb and Ag is improved.