Flotation apparatus with serially arranged cells

摘要

A flotation apparatus has array of flotation cells 11 - 16 which are in serial fluid communication from a first to a last cell. Each cell is in overflow communication with an overflow froth receiving receptacle 68 which has a top lip 67 of slightly varying height in each cell. Air inlets (51 - 56, Figs 2 and 5) and mechanical agitators 59 are provided for each cell and are so positioned to promote an upright circular fluid flow 71 in each cell toward the froth receiving receptacle 68. Each cell has internal surfaces 73, 74 shaped and oriented to promote the upright circular fluid flow and to discourage the creation of reverse eddy currents within the cell. The apparatus has particular application in de-inking paper for recycling purposes.