Apparatus and method for measuring the flow characteristics of a slurry

In an apparatus for measuring the flow characteristics of a slurry discharged from a flotation cell, a metering flange includes a central axis and interior area defined by at least one flange wall. The metering flange is coupled to the flotation cell and includes an inlet coaxial with the axis and in fluid communication with the slurry discharge from the cell. An outlet is also coaxial with the inlet section for allowing the slurry to flow through the interior area. An impingement plate is positioned in the interior area such that an impingement surface defined by the plate is acted upon by slurry flowing through the metering flange. A load cell measures force exerted on the impingement plate by the slurry flowing through the interior area via a transfer mechanism coupled to the impingement plate and in communication with the load cell.