Flotation oils (also referred to as float oils) are flotation reagents which play an important role in
froth flotation and are vital to mineral separation. Understanding how flotation oils and collectors
modify hydrophobic boundaries between mineral surfaces and the aqueous phase creates
parameters under which mineral beneficiation can be greatly improved and controlled.
Froth flotation is a common process for the separation of liberated minerals. The process involves
the aeration of minerals in water in the presence of flotation reagents which facilitate the
attachment of air bubbles to and levitation of select minerals. Once at the surface, the select
minerals are supported by a froth layer until they are removed. Unattached materials remain
submerged in the pulp.
Flotation oils act as co-collectors, extending the collector’s ability to float the desired mineral.
They provide strength to the hydrophobic layer. The amount and type of flotation oil used can
directly impact the nature of the froth, and thus can control the strength and selectivity of the
froth zone. Oil imparts hydrophobicity to mineral particles, a necessary condition for air bubble
attachment, and can control the nature and size of the air bubble. In many instances flotation
oils are used to regulate the amount of froth on the top of the flotation equipment. Flotation oils,
collectors and other inputs to mineral conditioning can be formulated to work together so that
the process can achieve higher grades and recovery with improved cost performance. In some
industries, flotation oil is used as a carrier / viscosity modifier to the collectors and are pre-
blended.
OAN formulates and manufactures customized flotation oils for specific ore bodies, environmental
requirements, equipment types and flotation process conditions to beneficiate oxide ores such as
phosphate and industrial minerals. We formulate using proprietary oils (petroleum and vegetable)
and surfactants sourced from across the globe. Let OAN work with you to develop and implement
a complete, customized flotation oil to help you succeed.