Defoamers and Anti-Foaming Agents for Mineral Processing
Managing Foam in Mineral Processing
Foam-related challenges can occur throughout mineral processing and handling operations. These typically include:
- Dissolved air in the aqueous phase
- Entrained air bubbles suspended within mineral slurries
- Stable bubbles that rise and accumulate as surface foam
Excessive air and foam can contribute to pump cavitation, reduced pumping efficiency, foam-overs, product losses, and inconsistent process performance.
Quell® Defoamers
Arkema’s Quell® technologies are custom-formulated to control unwanted foam and entrained air in mineral processing applications.
Our technical experts evaluate the ore, slurry characteristics, process conditions, equipment, and source of the foam challenge to develop an appropriate defoamer and dosing strategy. Laboratory screening, plant testing, and ongoing process support help optimize treatment for each operation.
Quell® solutions can support applications including mineral pumping and slurry handling, process equipment, and other operations where unwanted foam or entrained air can negatively impact performance.
Benefits
Quell® defoamers can help provide:
- Improved mineral and slurry handling
- Reduced entrained air and pump cavitation
- Improved pumping and pump box performance
- Reduced foam-overs and product losses
- Improved process consistency
- Customized formulations for specific ores and processes
- Optimized defoamer dosage
- Easy handling and dosing
Defoamers vs. Frothers in Mineral Processing
Foam control requirements vary throughout a mineral processing operation. Frothers are intentionally used during froth flotation to create and control the froth required for mineral separation, while defoamers are used where unwanted foam or entrained air interferes with processing and material handling.
Arkema’s mineral processing portfolio includes both CustoFroth® flotation frothers and Quell® defoamers, allowing our technical experts to address different foam-management requirements throughout the operation.
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CustoFroth® = create/control beneficial flotation froth
Quell® = control unwanted process foam
Partner with Arkema
Effective foam control depends on understanding where foam is generated and how it interacts with the ore, slurry, equipment, and overall process.
Work with Arkema’s technical experts to develop a customized Quell® defoamer and dosing strategy designed to improve foam control, slurry handling, and mineral processing performance.
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