Maelgwyn Mineral Services have been looking forward to carrying out high capacity R&D tests on the G-Cell centrifugal flotation design ever since their potash tests in Germany gave such encouraging results. The chance came when Ingwe MInes (BHP Billiton) offered their Koornfontein plant and facilities as a location. Maelgwyn MS and partners Particle Separation Systems (PSS) and JimHarrison Design Associates (JHDA) of South Africa manufactured and installed the G22 during November 2002 and tests commenced immediately.

G-Cell in operation

The G22 (2.2m diameter) was installed adjacent to the existing column flotation plant, receiving super-fine cyclone overflow after high shear conditioning. Capable of throughputs up to 350m3/h, optimal performance was achieved around 250m3/h.

The key objective was to to verify their scale-up predictions for hydraulic capacity. It became clear that the performance was sufficient to allow them to achieve production standards under appropriate conditions and throughputs. The benefits to a plant were clearly demonstrated by the exercise, including the simplicity of operation and the compact installation.