Flotation Economic Evaluation Tool (FLEET)

SGS is the industry leader in producing geometallurgically enabled models. Our Flotation Economic Evaluation Tool (FLEET) is a software simulation tool that factors the variability of flotation response across an orebody and takes into account the difficulties that arise from the scaling-up of laboratory tests. The use of FLEET to address flotation problems using a computer modeling approach improves the design, optimization and planning of flotation plants. The FLEET output provides detailed process and economic information needed by the design or production planning team.

FLEET is used for:

• Flotation circuit design, scale-up and optimization using lab flotation data
• Recovery and final concentrate grade predictions that would arise given any circuit design for a given mine block model

At the feasibility stage, FLEET directly inputs measured and calculated flotation response parameters into a block model, and virtually “mines” your entire deposit in minutes. Concentrate recovery and grade data is recorded for any defined flotation flowsheet on a block-by-block basis. This enables a geostatistically sound flotation circuit scenarios to be assessed prior to construction.

FLEET can:

• Manage risk by designing flotation circuits that ensure recovery and grade targets are achieved
• Identify the most effective equipment configurations or circuit design
• Provide credible design and cost criteria
• Assign a more accurate dollar value to each mining block (a product of metal content and improved forecasting of throughput, recovery and grade)
• Predict changes in plant recovery based on changes in plant grind
• Improve production planning by populating the resource block model with metallurgical grade and recovery data

Operations that have benefited from FLEET are those that have:

• Variability of flotation response across the orebody
• Encountered scale-up difficulties when laboratory test results have not been adequate

For a given block of ore, it is unlikely that the plant grind size distribution that will feed the froth flotation circuit or the flotation residence time will be known at the time of laboratory testing. Hence, the grind size distribution used in the laboratory test is not likely to be that which actually occurs once the ore is processed. As well, the laboratory retention time may not represent the actual plant conditions.

To address this, we determine key technical parameters from grinding and flotation laboratory test work on a large suite of samples from across the orebody. This data is then modeled to predict plant performance. The model also incorporates a comprehensive database of equipment specifications, circuit designs, costs and metallurgical considerations. The laboratory measurements used in FLEET are the maximum recoveries and the rate constants for different minerals and different size fractions.

We have extensive experience using FLEET and Comminution Economic Evaluation Tool (CEET) for either design of a new mill facility or for production planning within an existing operation. Partner with us to improve design and production planning in your flotation plant and minimize your technical risk by reviewing a wide variety of scenarios before you build.