EFM-T Ejector Flotation Machines with Tangential Feed
The EFM-T series of ejector flotation machines is a new generation of equipment developed by NPO Passat for the efficient extraction of valuable components from rebellious, oxidised and finely disseminated ores. The design is based on a fundamentally different approach to flotation — separating the key stages of the process and creating controlled hydrodynamics that ensure a high degree of extraction even for the most problematic classes.
A key feature is the disjunction of the contact and separation processes.
Unlike mechanical machines, where aeration and separation occur in the same volume, in the EFM-T these stages are completely separated. An external aerator provides intensive air dispersion and the formation of microbubbles 5–1000 μm in size, and the flotation chamber receives pre-treated aerated pulp. This allows each stage to be optimised independently and maximum technological efficiency to be achieved.
The pulp is fed tangentially, forming a swirling flow and creating conditions for rapid separation of the froth product. The flotation time is 1–2 minutes, which significantly increases the throughput of the line and reduces the footprint of the equipment.
Advantages of EFM-T flotation machines
- High-quality aeration due to uniform saturation of the pulp with air and the formation of stable fine bubbles.
- No rotating parts in the chamber, which eliminates intensive wear, vibration and frequent repairs.
- Increased recovery of fine and ultrafine grades due to optimal hydrodynamic conditions.
- Uniform distribution of the air-pulp phase, ensuring a stable process throughout the entire chamber volume.
- Energy efficiency: 50–60% lower power consumption than mechanical machines with similar performance.
- Durability: key components are made of wear-resistant materials, including silicon carbide.
- Flexible automation: the machine can be easily integrated into automated control systems and maintains stable real-time operating conditions.
- Space savings: compact EFM-T cascades reduce the need for production space by 60–70% while maintaining high throughput.
To select the optimal configuration, NPO Passat conducts pilot industrial tests based on the EFM-T12-P pilot installation, which includes a flotation chamber with a volume of 1 m3, a contact tank, and frequency-controlled pumps. This allows the technology to be adapted to a specific type of ore and to determine the required size of industrial equipment.
The EFM-T range includes sizes from EFM-T-12 to EFM-T-65, with a feed range from 18 to 2500 m3/h, which allows for flexible configuration of flotation cascades for the tasks of processing plants.
