EP1886724A1 - Fluid mixing apparatus - Google Patents
Fluid mixing apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1886724A1 EP1886724A1 EP07019312A EP07019312A EP1886724A1 EP 1886724 A1 EP1886724 A1 EP 1886724A1 EP 07019312 A EP07019312 A EP 07019312A EP 07019312 A EP07019312 A EP 07019312A EP 1886724 A1 EP1886724 A1 EP 1886724A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- blade body
- mixing
- inches
- yoke
- vessel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 110
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims description 36
- 238000007654 immersion Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 40
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 36
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 36
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 30
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 30
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 16
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 15
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 12
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 8
- 238000005188 flotation Methods 0.000 description 6
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 6
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000003960 organic solvent Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000002002 slurry Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- -1 Methylisobutyl carbonal Chemical compound 0.000 description 4
- RAHZWNYVWXNFOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N Sulphur dioxide Chemical compound O=S=O RAHZWNYVWXNFOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000005363 electrowinning Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000012074 organic phase Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000012071 phase Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 4
- QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Sulfuric acid Chemical compound OS(O)(=O)=O QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000008346 aqueous phase Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000006185 dispersion Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000003792 electrolyte Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000009291 froth flotation Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000002386 leaching Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000011149 sulphuric acid Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 239000001117 sulphuric acid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 229910001369 Brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- MBMLMWLHJBBADN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ferrous sulfide Chemical class [Fe]=S MBMLMWLHJBBADN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- UQSXHKLRYXJYBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron oxide Chemical compound [Fe]=O UQSXHKLRYXJYBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002738 chelating agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000704 physical effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N platinum Chemical compound [Pt] BASFCYQUMIYNBI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 229920001343 polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052770 Uranium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000037237 body shape Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000008151 electrolyte solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009472 formulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000295 fuel oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N gold Chemical compound [Au] PCHJSUWPFVWCPO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052737 gold Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010931 gold Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012535 impurity Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052742 iron Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000003350 kerosene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000005012 migration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013508 migration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005191 phase separation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007747 plating Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052697 platinum Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000000746 purification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004064 recycling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002893 slag Substances 0.000 description 1
- RZFBEFUNINJXRQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium ethyl xanthate Chemical compound [Na+].CCOC([S-])=S RZFBEFUNINJXRQ-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000638 solvent extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 1
- JFALSRSLKYAFGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N uranium(0) Chemical compound [U] JFALSRSLKYAFGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000010878 waste rock Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003245 working effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052727 yttrium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/55—Baffles; Flow breakers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
- B03D—FLOTATION; DIFFERENTIAL SEDIMENTATION
- B03D1/00—Flotation
- B03D1/14—Flotation machines
- B03D1/16—Flotation machines with impellers; Subaeration machines
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
- B01F31/44—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement
- B01F31/441—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement performing a rectilinear reciprocating movement
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F31/00—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms
- B01F31/44—Mixers with shaking, oscillating, or vibrating mechanisms with stirrers performing an oscillatory, vibratory or shaking movement
- B01F31/449—Stirrers constructions
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F35/00—Accessories for mixers; Auxiliary operations or auxiliary devices; Parts or details of general application
- B01F35/30—Driving arrangements; Transmissions; Couplings; Brakes
- B01F35/32—Driving arrangements
- B01F35/325—Driving reciprocating or oscillating stirrers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
- B03D—FLOTATION; DIFFERENTIAL SEDIMENTATION
- B03D1/00—Flotation
- B03D1/02—Froth-flotation processes
- B03D1/028—Control and monitoring of flotation processes; computer models therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B03—SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS USING LIQUIDS OR USING PNEUMATIC TABLES OR JIGS; MAGNETIC OR ELECTROSTATIC SEPARATION OF SOLID MATERIALS FROM SOLID MATERIALS OR FLUIDS; SEPARATION BY HIGH-VOLTAGE ELECTRIC FIELDS
- B03D—FLOTATION; DIFFERENTIAL SEDIMENTATION
- B03D1/00—Flotation
- B03D1/14—Flotation machines
- B03D1/1443—Feed or discharge mechanisms for flotation tanks
- B03D1/1462—Discharge mechanisms for the froth
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
- B01F2215/00—Auxiliary or complementary information in relation with mixing
- B01F2215/04—Technical information in relation with mixing
- B01F2215/0409—Relationships between different variables defining features or parameters of the apparatus or process
Abstract
Description
- The present invention generally relates to the field of mineral ore processing, and more particularly, to a mixing apparatus and to uses thereof in the separation of minerals from mineral-bearing ores.
- Processes are known in the prior art which provide for the separation of minerals from mineral-bearing ores.
- For example, in known processes used for the separation of copper from copper-bearing ores, illustrated diagrammatically in Figure 1, non-oxidized ores 20 (which might contain as little as 0.5% copper, and typically contain iron sulfides) are processed in a
crusher 22, withwater 24, to form aslurry 26. Theslurry 26 is then transferred to aflotation cell 28, and subjected to physical action, specifically, air sparging and mixing. As a result of the physical action, a substantial portion of the copper value in theslurry 26 rises to the surface of theflotation cell 28 as afroth 30, and is skimmed therefrom by apaddle mechanism 32, while the waste rock 33 ("gangue") remains in the bulk, and is ultimately passed from thecell 28 to adryer 34 and discharged astailings 36. This process of "froth separation" results from differences in wettability of copper as compared to other minerals, and is typically aided by chemical frothing andcollector agents 38 added to theslurry 26, such that thefroth 30 from such flotation contains 27% to 36% copper. Methylisobutyl carbonal (MIBC) is a typical frothing agent, and sodium xanthate, fuel oil, and VS M8 (a proprietary formulation) are typical collector agents. - The
froth 30 is then fed to an oxygen smelter 40, and the copper and iron sulfide are oxidized at high temperature resulting in impure molten metal 42 (97% - 99%, copper, with significant amounts of iron oxide) andgaseous sulfur dioxide 44. Theimpure metal 42 is then transferred to anelectrolytic purification unit 46, which separates theimpure metal 42 into 99.99%purity copper material 48 andslag 50. - The
gaseous sulfur dioxide 44 is collected in areactor 52 wherein it is scrubbed and mixed withwater 24 to formsulphuric acid 54. Thesulphuric acid 54 is suitably blended withwater 24 and used to leach oxidized ores, typically by "heap leaching" anore pile 56. The resultant copper-bearingacid 58 is known as "pregnant leach solution".Pregnant leach solution 58 is also obtained by mixing solutions ofsulphuric acid 54, invats 60, with thetailings 36 discharged from flotation operations, to dissolve the trace amounts of copper remaining therein. - The copper is "extracted" from the
pregnant leachate 58 by mixing therewith, in aprimary extraction step 62, organic solvent 64 (often kerosene) in which copper metal preferentially dissolves. Organicchemical chelators 66, which bind solubilized copper but not impurity metals, such as iron, are also often provided with the organic solvent, to further drive the migration of copper. Hydroxyoximes are exemplary in this regard. -
- The mixed phases are permitted to separate, into a copper-laden
organic solvent 68 and a depletedleachate 70. - The
depleted leachate 70 is then contacted with additionalorganic solvent 72 in asecondary extraction step 74, in the manner previously discussed, and allowed to settle, whereupon the phases separate into a lightly-loaded organic (which is recycled assolvent 64 in the primary extraction step) and a barren leachate or raffinate 76. - The
barren leachate 76 is delivered to a coalescer 78 to remove therefrom entrainedorganics 80, which are recycled into the system; the thus-conditionedleachate 82 is then suitable for recycling into the leaching system. - The pregnant organic mixture 68 (produced in the primary extraction step 62) is stripped of its copper in a
stripping operation 84 by the addition of an aqueous stripping solution of higher acidity 86 (to reverse the previous equation); after phase separation, a loaded electrolytic solution 88 ("rich electrolyte") remains, as well as an organic solvent, the latter being recycled assolvent 72 in thesecondary extraction 74. -
- This process results in
copper metal 92, and a lean (copper-poor) electrolyte, which is recycled asstripping solution 86. - The combination of leaching, combined with extraction and electrowinning, is commonly known in the art as solvent extraction electrowinning, hereinafter referred to in this specification and in the claims as "SXEW".
- In a known application of the described SXEW process, in both the primary 62 and secondary 74 extraction steps, the combined organic and aqueous phases are delivered through a series of mixing vessels (primary P, second S and tertiary T), and then to a settling tank ST, the primary mixing vessel P being about 8 feet in diameter and 12 feet in height, and stirred by a rotary mixer driven by a 20 horsepower motor, and each of the secondary S and tertiary T mixing vessels being about 12 feet in diameter and height, and stirred by a rotary mixer driven by a 7.5 horsepower motor. (The system of primary P, secondary S and tertiary T mixers, and settling tank ST, is replicated to meet volume flow requirements, with each system processing about 10,000 gpm). This provides a mixing regime wherein the organic and aqueous phases are intimately mixed for a period of time sufficient to allow copper exchange (to maximize copper recovery), yet relatively quickly separate substantially into organic and aqueous phases.
- In a known application of the froth flotation process, a plurality of
flotation cells 28, each being approximately 5 feet square and 4 feet high, are utilized, with pairs of cells sharing a 50 horsepower motor driving respecting rotary mixers (not shown). This provides a mixing regime sufficient to allow the air bubbles to carry the copper value to the surface. - Various modifications can be made to the rotary mixers in the extractors and in the flotation tanks of the foregoing process. However, the general configurations noted above have been found to provide relatively economical results, and significant variations therefrom can impact adversely upon economies. For example, an attempt to reduce energy costs by scaling-down the motors for the mixers would have consequent impacts either upon the copper recovery efficiency, or upon available process throughputs. Specifically, the relatively large motors employed are required to drive the sturdy (and therefore heavy) rotary mixers and shafts that are needed to withstand the torques caused by rotation; lower power motors would demand either lower blade speed or smaller blades, with consequent impacts upon mixing and transfer efficiency.
- According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for mixing fluids within a vessel having a contiguous sidewall centered about and defining a longitudinal axis. The mixing apparatus includes a mixing head, means for mounting the mixing head within the vessel, and means for imparting reciprocating longitudinal movement to the mixing head. The mixing head has a blade body for immersion in the fluids. The blade body has a first end, an opposed second end disposed in spaced relation thereto along a blade body axis, and a passageway extending therealong between the first and second ends. The passageway tapers from the first end to the second end. The blade body further has an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of the blade body defines an inside blade diameter ID at the second end, and an outside blade diameter OD at the first end. The reciprocating longitudinal movement imparted to the mixing head is defined by a stroke length S, with a duration T for each cycle. The mixing apparatus is operable within a set of operational parameters defined by the equation:
- In an additional feature, the stroke length S is between 2 inches and 24 inches. Preferably, the stroke length S is between 4 inches and 16 inches. More preferably, the stroke length S is between 8 inches and 12 inches.
- In a further additional feature, the OD:ID is greater than 1.0 and less than or equal to 1.7. Preferably, the OD:ID is between 1.5 and 1.7. In yet another feature, the stroke length S is between 8 and 12 inches; and the OD:ID is between 1.5 and 1.7.
- In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an apparatus for mixing fluids within a vessel having a contiguous sidewall centered about and defining a longitudinal axis. The mixing apparatus includes a housing, a mixing head, a shaft, a reciprocating drive assembly, and a linear bearing assembly. The housing is positionable above said vessel. The mixing head has a blade body for immersion in the fluids. The blade body has a first end, an opposed second end disposed in spaced relation thereto along a blade body axis, and a passageway extending therealong between the first and second ends. The passageway tapers from the first end to the second end. The shaft for supporting the mixing head and extends into the vessel. The reciprocating drive assembly is positioned substantially within the housing. The reciprocating drive assembly is operatively connected to the shaft to impart reciprocating longitudinal movement to the mixing head. The linear bearing assembly is mounted to the housing in surrounding relation to the shaft. The linear bearing assembly includes upper and lower bearing subassemblies for engagement with the shaft at respective upper and lower, longitudinally spaced, locations.
- In an additional feature, the upper bearing subassembly is adapted and configured for sliding engagement with the shaft. In a further feature, the upper bearing subassembly includes a pair of mating bushing blocks surrounding the shaft for sliding engagement therewith. Each bushing block has a groove formed therein for slidingly receiving the shaft. The grooves of the bushing blocks are mounted in opposed relation one to the other with the shaft disposed therebetween when the bushing block are mated one with the other. Additionally, the groove formed in each bushing block is lined with a pad fabricated from a self-lubricating material. Further still, the pad has longitudinal ribs formed therein. In yet a further feature, the groove formed in each bushing block is generally semi-circular.
- In another feature, the housing includes a base. The base supports one of the bearing blocks of the upper bearing subassembly. The shaft is mounted to extend downwardly through the base. Moreover, the base has a slot formed therein along an edge thereof for accommodating the shaft. The slot is configured to permit the shaft to be laterally received into, and laterally removed from, the slot. The slot is substantially aligned with the groove of the bearing block supported on the base.
- In still another feature, the lower bearing subassembly is adapted and configured for rolling engagement with the shaft. Additionally, the housing includes a base. The lower bearing assembly has at least two roller assemblies carried below the base at the lower location. Further still, the lower bearing assembly includes at least one mounting member for operatively connecting the roller assemblies to at least one of the base and the upper bearing assembly. In yet an additional feature, the lower bearing assembly has a first mounting member attaching at least one roller assembly to the base, and a second mounting member attaching at least one roller assembly to the upper bearing assembly. In a still further feature, the upper bearing subassembly includes a pair of mating bushing blocks surrounding the shaft for sliding engagement therewith. The second mounting member is mounted to, and depending downwardly from, one of the bushing blocks.
- In an additional feature, the lower bearing assembly has first and second roller assemblies supported by the first mounting member, and a third roller assembly supported by the second mounting member. The first, second and third roller assemblies are mounted in surrounding relation to the shaft.
- In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a reciprocating drive assembly for use in a fluid mixer to impart reciprocating movement along a longitudinal axis to a shaft carrying a mixing head for immersion in fluids. The reciprocating drive assembly includes a housing, a flywheel, a crank member, a yoke, and first and second yoke assemblies. The flywheel is mounted for rotation about a rotational axis extending substantially normal to the longitudinal axis. The crank member projects from the flywheel in a direction parallel to the rotational axis. The yoke is supported by the housing for movement along a yoke axis disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The yoke is releasably connected to the shaft. The yoke has a substantially linear race formed therein for receiving the crank member. The race is disposed within the yoke substantially normal to both the rotational axis and the yoke axis. The first and second guide assemblies are operatively connected to the housing, and to the yoke for sliding engagement therewith along a pair of guide axes extending substantially parallel to the yoke axis. The first and second guide assemblies being laterally spaced from each other with the yoke disposed substantially therebetween. When the flywheel is rotatively driven, the crank member is caused to translate linearly within the race thereby urging the yoke to slidingly engage the guide assemblies and move along the yoke axis to effect longitudinal reciprocating movement of the shaft and the mixing head.
- In an additional feature, each of the first and second guide assemblies is a linear slide assemblies. In still another feature, each linear slide assembly includes a guide rail member associated with at least one corresponding guide rail following member. Each guide rail member is fixedly mounted to the housing coincident with one of the guide axes. Each of the at least one guide rail following members is rigidly connected to the yoke and slidably moveable relative to its corresponding guide rail member. Further still, each guide rail member has upper and lower, spaced-apart, guide rail following members associated therewith.
- The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
- Figure 1 is a diagrammatic representation of conventional SXEW processes for copper extraction.
- Figure 2 is a front, top, right side perspective view of a fluid mixing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown operatively mounted on a vessel.
- Figure 3 is a right side cross-sectional view of the fluid mixing apparatus and vessel shown in Figure 2.
- Figure 4 is a front, top left side perspective view of the fluid mixing apparatus of Figure 2, showing, inter alia, a reciprocating drive assembly and mounting means.
- Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the structure shown in Figure 4.
- Figure 6A is a front elevational view of the structure of Figure 4, with the mixer shaft and shaft gripping means removed for clarity.
- Figure 6B is a view similar to Figure 6A, with, inter alia, the flywheel displaced 90° counter-clockwise relative to its position in Figure 6A.
- Figure 6C is a view similar to Figure 6A, with, inter alia, the flywheel displaced 90° counter-clockwise relative to its position in Figure 6B.
- Figure 6D is a view similar to Figure 6A, with, inter alia, the flywheel displaced 90° counter-clockwise relative to its position in Figure 6C.
- Figure 7 is a front, top, right side perspective view of the mixing head of the fluid mixing apparatus shown in Figure 2.
- Figure 8 is a rear, bottom, left side perspective view of the mixing head of the fluid mixing apparatus shown in Figure 2.
- Figure 9 is a bottom plan view of the mixing head of the fluid mixing apparatus shown in Figure 2.
- Figure 10 is a right side elevational view of the mixing head of the fluid mixing apparatus shown in Figure 2.
- Figure 11 is an enlarged detail view of an alternate embodiment of the support webs to that shown in Figure 7, which view corresponds to the area circumscribed by
circle 11 in Figure 7. - Figure 12 is an enlarged detail view of an alternate embodiment of the blade body shown in Figure 7, which view corresponds to the area circumscribed by
circle 12 in Figure 7. - Figure 13 is a view similar to that of Figure 12, showing a further alternate embodiment of the blade body.
- Figure 14 is a front, top, left side perspective view of a fluid mixing apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the invention in use in a froth flotation cell.
- Figure 15 is a left side cross-sectional view of the structure of Figure 14 .
- Figure 16a is a side cross-sectional view of an alternate fluid mixing apparatus to that shown in Figure 3, showing the fluid mixing apparatus mounted within a vessel having baffles disposed therein.
- Figure 16b is a top left perspective view of the alternate mixing head shown in Figure 16a.
- Figure 16c is a bottom plan view of the alternate mixing head shown in Figure 16a.
- Figure 17 is a partially exploded view showing an alternate mounting means and an alternate shaft gripping means to those shown in Figure 4.
- Figure 18 is a sectional view, along sight line 18-18 of Figure 17, with the apparatus shown fully assembled.
- Figure 19 is a perspective view of yet another alternate mounting means and an alternate reciprocating drive assembly to those shown in Figure 4.
- Figure 20 is a partially exploded perspective view of the mounting means and the reciprocating drive assembly of Figure 19.
- Figure 21 is a top, right perspective view of an alternate reciprocating drive assembly to that shown in Figure 19.
- Figure 22 is an partially exploded perspective view of the reciprocating drive assembly of Figure 21.
- . Figure 23 is a top, right perspective view of an alternate reciprocating drive assembly to that shown in Figure 19.
- Figure 24 is a partially exploded perspective view of the reciprocating drive assembly of Figure 23.
- Referring now to Figure 2 of the drawings, a fluid mixing apparatus, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention and designated with
general reference numeral 100, is shown in use with afluid containing vessel 102 having acontiguous sidewall 104 centered about and defining a longitudinal axis A-A. Thefluid mixing apparatus 100 is mounted to aframe 140 which spans over thevessel 102. - The
fluid mixing apparatus 100 includes a mixinghead 106 for immersion in the fluids to be mixed; means 108 for mounting the mixinghead 106 within thevessel 102; and reciprocating means 110 for imparting reciprocating longitudinal (i.e. vertical) movement to the mixinghead 106. - Referring to Figure 7, the mixing
head 106 includes: ablade body 112 formed about a head axis H-H; a generallytubular hub member 114; and a plurality ofsupport webs 116 for connecting theblade body 112 to thehub member 114. - As shown in Figure 8, the
blade body 112 has afirst end 120, an opposedsecond end 122 disposed in spaced relation thereto along the head axis H-H, and apassageway 123 extending longitudinally between the first and second ends 120 and 122. In the preferred embodiment, thepassageway 123 tapers uniformly from thefirst end 120 to thesecond end 122 to impart a substantially frustoconical shape to theblade body 112. - The
blade body 112 also has aninner surface 126 and anouter surface 128. Theouter surface 128 defines an inside blade diameter ID at thesecond end 122 of theblade body 112, and an outside blade diameter OD at thefirst end 120 thereof. The actual outside diameter OD may be between 25 and 40 percent of the internal diameter D of the vessel. - The taper in the
passageway 123 can be expressed as an angle α, where angle α is the angle formed between a pair of axes X,X and Y,Y defined by, and coincident with, the intersections of theouter surface 128 of theblade body 112 and a plane P-P coincident with the head axis H-H, as shown in as indicated in Figures 9 and 10. The angle α is greater than or equal to 90° and less than 180°. Preferably, the angle α is between 90° and 120°. - Whereas in the preferred embodiment, the
passageway 123 tapers uniformly along its length from thefirst end 120 to thesecond end 122 to define a substantiallyfrustoconical blade body 112, the passageway may be configured to define other blade body shapes. For instance, the passageway can be configured to have different rates of taper therealong. In an alternate embodiment shown in Figures 16a, 16b and 16c, there is shown a mixinghead 400 having ablade body 402. Theblade body 402 includes afirst end 404, asecond end 406 and apassageway 408 defined therebetween. Thepassageway 408 tapers in a non-uniform fashion between thefirst end 404 and thesecond end 406. More specifically, theblade body 402 is formed with a point ofinflection 410 therein located between thefirst end 404 and thesecond end 406. Thepassageway 408 tapers at first rate from thefirst end 404 to the point ofinflection 410, and, at a second rate from the point ofinflection 410 to thesecond end 406. In the alternate embodiment shown, the first rate of taper is less than the second rate of taper. However, this need not be the case in all instances. In some applications, it may be desirable for the first rate of taper to be greater than the second rate of taper. - In the preferred embodiment, the
blade body 112 is constructed from sixarcuate segments 118 arranged end-to-end. The segments are secured to one another by bolts (not shown) fastened throughflanges 124 provided at the ends of eachsegment 118 for this purpose (see Figures 7, 8 and 9). - The
hub member 114 is disposed generally coincident with the head axis H-H. Extending substantially radially in a downwardly canted fashion from thehub member 114 is the plurality ofsupport webs 116. Thesupport webs 116 connect thearcuate segments 118 of theblade body 112 to thehub member 114. Such connection is effected by rivets or bolts (not shown). - Whereas in the preferred embodiment the
blade body 112 andsupport webs 116 are substantially smooth, in an alternative embodiment, one or both of the blade body and the support webs could be formed with perforations or dimples. For instance, referring to Figure 12, there is shown analternate blade body 412 having formed therein a plurality ofperforations 414 each extending between an inner surface 416 and anouter surface 418 thereof. - Figure 13 shows a
blade portion 420 provided with a plurality ofdimples 422 projecting outwardly from anouter surface 424 of theblade portion 420 and inwardly from aninner surface 426 of theblade portion 420. This allows fine tuning of the mixing device in a manner not taught by the prior art. - In yet another alternate embodiment shown in Figure 11, a
support web 430 is provided with a plurality ofperforations 432, as well as a plurality oftabs 434 each substantially overlying arespective perforation 432. Thetabs 434 are connected to thesupport web 430 at one edge of saidrespective perforation 432 to form a gill. In this manner, the characteristics of the mixing currents produced by the blade body in motion can be finely tuned to control the droplet size of the dispersion, and hence, the mixing efficiency of the device, which feature is not available in prior art mixers. - Referring now to Figure 3, the preferred mounting means 108 will be seen to include a
mixer shaft 130 for carrying the mixinghead 106 and alinear bearing 132 adapted to slidingly engage themixer shaft 130. - The
mixer shaft 130 has abottom end 134 releasably mounted to the mixinghead 106, and atop end 136 operatively connected to the reciprocating means 110. The releasable connection of themixer shaft 130 to the mixinghead 106 may be effected by threadingly engaging thebottom end 134 of themixer shaft 130 with the threaded interior of thehub member 114. When mounted to the mixinghead 106, themixer shaft 130 extends substantially coincident with the head axis H-H. - In the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 3, the mixing
head 106 is mounted to themixer shaft 130 with thesecond end 122 of theblade body 112 being carried below thefirst end 120 thereof. In an alternate embodiment, the orientation of the mixing head could be reversed such that the first end of the blade body is carried below the second tube end thereof. - As best shown in Figure 5, the
mixer shaft 130 is preferably hollow and is constructed of a plurality oftube segments 170, threaded at their ends and joined to one-another in end-to-end relation by threadedcouplings 172, so thatsegments 170 can be added or removed as desired to accommodate for different depths of the vessel. The use of a hollow mixer shaft leads to reduced energy consumption by the fluid mixing apparatus during use. In contrast, conventional rotary-type mixers use heavy, solid shafts requiring greater energy input. - The
linear bearing 132 is a sleeve-type bearing mounted in surrounding relation to themixer shaft 130 for sliding engagement therewith during its reciprocating longitudinal movement. Thelinear bearing 132 is securely fixed to ahousing 138 supporting the reciprocating means 110. - As best illustrated in Figure 4, the reciprocating means 110 includes a shaft gripping means 142 for gripping the
mixer shaft 130 adjacent itstop end 136 and areciprocating drive assembly 144 operatively connected to the mixingshaft 130 to impart reciprocating longitudinal movement to the mixinghead 106. - With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the shaft gripping means 142 preferably includes a
clamp 163 formed by a pair ofmating clamping blocks clamping block groove 166 formed therein which is sized and adapted for receiving themixer shaft 130 in close fitting relation thereto. In the preferred embodiment, thegroove 166 is generally concave and has a semi-circular cross-section. When the clamping blocks 164a and 164b are mated, thegrooves 166 thereof are disposed in opposed relation to each other to grippingly receive themixer shaft 130 and captively retain themixer shaft 130 .therebetween.Bolts 168 rigidly fasten the clamping blocks 164a and 164b to each other and to thereciprocating drive assembly 144. Thus fastened, the clamping blocks 164a and 164b transfer the reciprocating longitudinal movement of thereciprocating drive assembly 144 to themixer shaft 130 when thefluid mixing apparatus 100 is in use. - This clamp arrangement permits the relative depth of the mixing
head 106 in thevessel 102 to be conveniently adjusted from above; theclamp 163 need only be loosed, by disengaging the associatedbolts 168, whereuponmixer shaft 130 can be raised or lowered as desired, andbolts 168 re-engaged. - As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the reciprocating
drive assembly 144 includes: aflywheel 146; adrive 148 for driving rotation of theflywheel 146; a crankmember 150 projecting from the flywheel; ayoke 152 adapted and configured to receive thecrank member 150 therewithin; and guide means 156 for guiding theyoke 152 along ayoke axis 153 for reciprocating longitudinal movement. Theflywheel 146, thedrive 148, thecrank member 150, theyoke 152 and the guide means 156 are operatively connected to, and co-operate with, each other to form ascotch yoke assembly 143. - The
flywheel 146 is mounted to thehousing 138 for rotation about a rotational axis R-R which is substantially normal to the longitudinal axis A-A. Thedrive 148 in the nature of an electric motor, is operatively connected by its drive shaft (not shown) to theflywheel 146 for driving rotation. - Projecting from the flywheel in a direction parallel to the rotational axis, is the
crank member 150. Thecrank member 150 is removeably attached to theflywheel 146 for rotation therewith. For the purpose of minimizing friction, thecrank member 150 includes aninner axle portion 182 which is fixedly connected to theflywheel 146 and anouter roller portion 184 which is rotatably mounted by bearings (not shown) on the inner axle portion 182 (see Figure 5). - The
yoke 152 is mounted within thehousing 138 for movement along ayoke axis 153 disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A. Theyoke 152 is displaced from theflywheel 146 in the direction of thecrank member 150 and has formed therein a substantiallylinear race 154 for receiving thecrank member 150. Therace 154 is disposed within theyoke 152, substantially normal to both the rotational axis R-R and theyoke axis 153. Therace 154 is adapted and configured to allow translational movement of thecrank member 150 relative to theyoke 152 as theflywheel 146 rotates. - The guide means 156 includes upper and lower threaded
guide shafts coaxial bores 156 disposed on upper and lower surfaces of theyoke 152. Corresponding upper andlower guide bearings housing 138 for slidingly engaging the upper andlower guide shafts upper guide shaft 158a extends protrudes through an aperture (not shown) formed in the housing about which the upper guide bearing 160a is mounted. - To counter stresses created on the
yoke 152 by virtue of its carriage of the shaft gripping means 142, the guide means 156 additionally include a balancing or stabilizingshaft 174 and a pair of matinglinear bearing blocks shaft 174. The stabilizingshaft 174 is rigidly connected to thehousing 138 and extends substantially parallel toyoke axis 153. Eachlinear bearing block groove 178 of semi-circular cross-section formed therein which is sheathed with a self-lubricating material such as polytetrafluorethylene. When thelinear bearing blocks grooves 178 thereof are mounted in opposed relation one with the other with the stabilizingshaft 174 extending longitudinally therebetween.Bolts 180 fasten thelinear bearing blocks yoke 152. - The workings of the
reciprocating drive assembly 144 are now explained in greater detail below. With theyoke 152 operatively mounted with the upper andlower guide shafts guide bearings yoke 152 is mounted to thehousing 138 in a manner which constrains movement ofyoke 152 otherwise than along theyoke axis 153 and normal to the rotational axis R-R. When the flywheel is rotatively driven by thedrive 148, thecrank member 150 is caused to translate linearly within therace 154 thereby urging theyoke 152 to move along theyoke axis 153 to effect longitudinal reciprocating movement of themixer shaft 130, as indicated by the sequence of Figures 6A-6D. In the result, the mixinghead 106 carried by themixer shaft 130 is longitudinally displaced through a stroke length "S" with a duration "T" for each cycle (where "S" is expressed in inches and "T" is expressed in minutes). For the sake clarity, a cycle consists of the upstroke and downstroke movement of the mixinghead 106. In Figure 3, the mixinghead 106 is shown in blackline in a starting position, and in phantom outline, at a position longitudinally displaced from the starting position through the stroke length "S". - The length of the resultant stroke may be selected by suitable adjustment to the radial position of the crank member 150 (that is, the distance between the
crank member 150 and the rotation axis R-R). Accordingly, theflywheel 146 is provided with a plurality of threadedsockets 162 disposed in a radial array on the face of the flywheel 146 (see Figure 5). Each threadedsocket 162 is sized and adapted to receive thecrank member 150 therein. Each crank member and socket combination corresponds to a predetermined stroke length "S". The duration "T" of each cycle may be selected by suitable adjustment of the rotational speed of thedrive 148. - By virtue of the reciprocating longitudinal movement imparted to the mixing
head 106, a portion of the fluids in thevessel 102 is urged to flow through thepassageway 123 defined in theblade body 112 thereby encouraging efficient mixing of the fluids in thevessel 102. It has been found that mixing efficiencies tend to be improved when thefluid mixing apparatus 100 is operated within a set of operational parameters defined by the equation: - OD is the outside diameter of the
blade body 112 at thefirst end 120 thereof measured in inches; - ID is the inside diameter of the
blade body 112 at thesecond end 122 thereof measured in inches; - S is the stroke length measured in inches; and
- T is the duration of each cycle measured in minutes.
- While the stroke length "S" can measure between 2 inches and 24 inches, it is preferred that the stroke length "S" be between 4 inches and 16 inches. More preferably, the stroke length "S" is between 8 inches and 12 inches.
- Moreover, while it has been found that improved mixing efficiencies may be obtained where the value for OD:ID is greater than 1.0 and less than or equal to 1.7, preferably, the value for OD:ID lies between 1.5 and 1.7.
- When operated within the set of operational parameters defined above, it has been found that the present invention can be used to great advantage as a mixer for a vessel in a solvent extractor unit, as shown in Figures 2 and 3 and illustrated in Examples 1 and 2 below.
- In the known application of the SXEW process previously described, samples were taken from the outfall of each of the primary vessel; secondary vessel; tertiary vessel and settling tank of a respective secondary extraction unit (A) and permitted to separate.
- In a parallel secondary extraction unit (B) (ie processing a pregnant leachate of substantially identical composition), a mixing apparatus in accordance with the present invention (OD=60; ID=40; α=120; S=10; T=.0333, driven by a 2hp motor) was substituted for the rotary mixer in the secondary mixing vessel, and samples were again taken from the outfall from each of the primary, second and tertiary mixing vessels, and from the settling tank, and permitted to separate.
- Copper concentration (g/l) was measured in the organic component of each sample, as follows:
(A) (B) 30 cpm Cu(g/l) Cu (g/l) Primary mixing vessel 2.01 2.01 Secondary mixing vessel 2.06 2.06 Tertiary mixing vessel 2.12 2.13 Settling tank 2.14 2.13 - As would be expected, copper concentration from the primary mixing vessel in each of the A and B lines is similar (because to that point in the process, mixing is provided by identical rotary mixers). However, unexpectedly, copper concentrations in the outfall from the secondary mixers also remained identical, and copper concentration in the outfall from the settling tanks remained quite similar, despite the almost 70% reduction in energy input (1.25 hp drawn from a 2 hp drive motor for the reciprocating mixer, as compared to 5.0 hp drawn from the 7.5 hp motor drive for the rotary mixer).
- In a second test, the B line of Example 1 was modified by altering the motor speed of the mixer of the present invention, such that it operated at 45 cycles/minute (T=.0222).
- Copper concentration (g/l) was again measured, as follows :
(B) [45cpm] Cu (g/l) Primary mixing vessel 2.00 Secondary mixing vessel 2.08 Tertiary mixing vessel 2.11 Settling tank 2.16 - Again, as would be expected, copper concentration from the primary mixing vessel in the B line remained similar to that obtained in the A line (because to that point in the process, mixing is provided by identical rotary mixers). However, unexpectedly, copper concentrations in the outfall from the settling tank from the modified B line showed significant improvement over the A line results (copper recovery improved from 2.14 g/l to 2.16 g/l).
- Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed the fluid mixing apparatus of the present invention provides mixing currents which [at least in the context of the liquids utilized in SXEW copper extraction] create a dispersion characterized by consistent-sized droplets, uniformly distributed throughout the mixing vessel, whereas in a rotary mixer, there is a wide variation in drop sizes, and in the distribution of said drops, (perhaps due to the fact that the blade in a rotary mixer moves at different speeds along its length). This uniform dispersion is believed to provide an environment amenable to efficient mass transfer between phases, while at the same time providing for substantial disengagement of the mixed phases within a relatively short time frame.
- Whereas the illustrations depict an embodiment of the present invention which is preferred, various modifications are contemplated and described below.
- In the preferred embodiment, the shaft gripping means 142 is adapted to allow the clamping blocks 164a and 164b to be uncoupled from each other and detached from the
yoke 152 by merely removing thebolts 168. It will be appreciated, however, that in some instances it may not be desirable to completely detach the clamp from the yoke when releasing the mixer shaft. In such instances, it would be preferable to uncouple the clamping blocks while still maintaining a rigid connection between one of the clamping blocks and the yoke. In the alternate embodiment shown in Figures 17 and 18, this is achieved by replacingclamp 163 with a modifiedclamp 186. While theclamp 186 is generally similar to theclamp 163 in that it has a pair ofmating clamping blocks concave grooves 190 therein, it differs in one material respect, that is, theclamping block 188a is fastened to theyoke 152 bybolts 192, independently of clampingblock 186. Mating of the clamping blocks 188a and 188b is achieved by fasteningbolts 194. - While in the preferred embodiment the mounting means 108 includes a single
linear bearing 132 which slidingly engages themixer shaft 130 at a single location, in an alternate embodiment a linear bearing assembly could be provided for sliding engagement with the mixer shaft at more than one location. One such alternate embodiment is shown in Figures 17 and 18, where a mixer shaft designated withreference numeral 196 and a linear bearing assembly is designated withreference numeral 200. Thelinear bearing assembly 200 includes anupper bearing subassembly 202 and alower bearing subassembly 204 for engagement with themixer shaft 196 at respective upper and lower, longitudinally spaced,locations - The
upper bearing subassembly 202 is adapted and configured for sliding engagement with themixer shaft 196. More specifically, it has a bushing 210 formed ofmating bushing blocks mixer shaft 196. Eachbushing block concave groove 214 of semi-circular cross-section formed therein for receiving themixer shaft 196. Eachgroove 214 is sheathed or lined with anarcuate pad 216 of self-lubricating material such as polytetrafluorethylene. Preferably, eachpad 216 is ribbed. When the bushing blocks 212a and 212b are mated, thegrooves 214 thereof are mounted in opposed relation one with the other with themixer shaft 196 extending longitudinally therebetween. The bushing blocks 212a and 212b are securely attached to each other bybolts 218. The bushing 210 is operatively connected to thehousing 138 by securely mountingbushing block 212a to abase 207 of thehousing 138. - The
lower bearing subassembly 204 is adapted and configured for rolling engagement with themixer shaft 196. Thelower bearing subassembly 204 includes at least two roller assemblies identified generally as 220, carried below thebase 207 of thehousing 138 at thelower location 208. However, preferably, thelower bearing subassembly 204 has first, second and third roller assemblies respectively, 222, 224 and 226, mounted in surrounding relation to themixer shaft 196. A first mounting member in the nature oftubular support 228 attaches the first andsecond roller assemblies base 207 of thehousing 138. Thetubular support 228 depends downwardly from thebase 207 and terminates at its distal end with aflange member 230. Theflange member 230 has a pair ofupstanding brackets 232 to which are fastened the first andsecond roller assemblies bolts 234. - The
lower bearing subassembly 204 also includes a second mounting member in the nature of a pair ofremovable supports 236. Theremovable supports 236 are securely attached to thebushing block 212a and depend downwardly therefrom to aterminus 238. The terminus has abracket 240 which extends downwardly therefrom. The third roller assembly is secured to thebracket 240 bybolts 242. - In the preferred embodiment, each
roller assembly single roller 239 rotatively mounted to aroller housing 241. It will be appreciated that in alternate 5 embodiments multiple rollers may be employed. - When the bushing blocks 212a and 212b are operably secured to each other, the first, second and
third roller assemblies mixer shaft 196, as shown in Figure 18, at a position beneath and longitudinally spaced from bushing 210. The support provided by the first, second andthird roller assemblies lower location 208 tends to limit flexure of themixer shaft 196, while permitting reciprocating longitudinal movement thereof. - As best shown in Figure 17, the
mixer shaft 196 can be removed from thehousing 138 for servicing, maintenance, repair or replacement by first disassembling theupper bearing subassembly 202 and then by disengaging theclamp 186. The removal ofbolts 218 in bushing 210 allows thebushing block 212b and thethird roller assembly 226 attached thereto, to be removed from sliding engagement with themixer shaft 196.Bolts 194 can then be removed fromclamp 186 thereby releasing themixer shaft 196. An open-ended rebate or slot 244 formed along an outermost edge of the base 207 permits themixer shaft 196 to be displaced laterally from the base for ease of removal. To further facilitate handling of themixer shaft 196 once released, themixer shaft 196 is formed with an upperenlarged end portion 246, in which is provided a threadedbore 248, to receive a threaded lifting lug (not shown). - With reference to Figures 19 and 20, there is shown an alternate mounting means 250 and an alternate
reciprocating drive assembly 252. The mounting means 250 generally resembles the mounting 108 in that it includes amixer shaft 254 and a linear bearing 256. Themixer shaft 254 is generally similar tomixer shaft 130, but differs in that it has anenlarged shaft head 258 provided with a support flange 259. When operatively connected to theshaft gripping clamp 260, the support flange 259 of themixer shaft 254 abuts clampingblocks 262 and 264 thereby providing an additional mechanical connection to the frictional connection effected by the clamping blocks 262 and 264. - The linear bearing assembly 256 includes a sleeve-type linear plain bearing 266 mounted in surrounding relation to the
mixer shaft 254. Theplain bearing 266 is secured to thebase 207 of thehousing 138 byfasteners 268. A keyhole-shapedslot 270 formed along an outermost edge of the base 207 permits themixer shaft 254 to be displaced laterally from the base 207 during removal thereof. By virtue of the use of theplain bearing 266, it will however be evident that, in order to remove themixer shaft 244, theplain bearing 266 must first be detached from thehousing 138, by removingfasteners 268. - The
reciprocating drive assembly 252 is generally similar to thereciprocating drive assembly 144 described above in that it has aflywheel 272, adrive 274, acrank member 276, ayoke 278 and guide means 280 operatively connected to form ascotch yoke assembly 282. However, whereas guide means 156 of reciprocatingdrive assembly 144 includes upper andlower guide shafts lower guide bearings shaft 174 with matinglinear bearing blocks linear slide assemblies linear slide assemblies housing 138 and to theyoke 278 for sliding engagement therewith along a pair of guide axes 288 and 290 extending substantially parallel to a yoke axis designated as 292. The first and secondlinear slide assemblies yoke 278 substantially disposed therebetween. - Each
linear slide assembly track 294 associated with at least one corresponding guide rail following member in the nature of asaddle member 296. Eachtrack 294 is fixedly secured to a support member 298 of thehousing 138 coincident with arespective guide axis saddle member 296 is adapted and configured for sliding motion along itscorresponding track 294. - The
linear slide assemblies saddle mounting members 300 for attaching thesaddle members 296 to theyoke 278. Thesaddle mounting members 300 are generally T-shaped members mounted between a pair of transverse yoke beams 301 and 303 to define arace 306 formed in theyoke 278. Thesaddle members 296 are in turn mounted to the back of thesaddle mounting members 300 in opposed relation to thetrack 294. Thus attached, thesaddle members 296 bound on either side therace 306. Looking into the direction of arrow 307 (shown in Figure 19), it can be seen that thelinear bearing assemblies yoke 278. - In the alternate embodiment shown and described above, each
linear slide assembly saddle members 296 for improved stability; anupper saddle member 308 and alower saddle member 310. - It will be appreciated that other alternative track and saddle member arrangements may be constructed. Referring to Figures 21 and 22, there is shown an alternative
reciprocating drive assembly 350 generally similar to reciprocatingdrive assembly 252. Thereciprocating drive assembly 350 has, inter alia, ayoke 352 and track-and-saddle type,linear slide assemblies linear slide assemblies linear slide assemblies assembly track 358 associated with at least onecorresponding saddle member 360. However, theassemblies saddle members 360 already captively retained on thetracks 358 for sliding engagement therewith. Theyoke 352 differs fromyoke 278 shown in Figure 19 and 20 in that it is of unitary construction and hassaddle mounting portions 362 incorporated therein. - Alternate configurations of a reciprocating drive assembly having dual linear slide assemblies, are also possible. Referring now to Figures 23 and 24, there is shown a
reciprocating drive assembly 312 generally similar to thereciprocating drive assembly 252 described above. Thereciprocating drive assembly 312 includes aflywheel 314, adrive 316, acrank member 318, ayoke 320 and guide means 322 operatively connected to form ascotch yoke assembly 324. The guide means 322 is similar to the guide means 280 in that it also uses a pair of parallel, longitudinally extending, left and right guide assemblies. However, whereas the guide means 280 employs a pair oftracks 294 each associated with at least onesaddle member 296, the guide means 322 uses a Thompson shaft arrangement, that is, a pair ofguide posts 326 each associated with at least one linear slidingblock 328. - Each
guide post 326 is mounted within thehousing 138 to extend upwardly between the base 207 and atop plate 332 thereof. The guide posts 326 are secured to thebase 207 bycollar members 330 and fasteners (not shown). Each linear slidingblock 328 is mounted in surrounding relation to its associatedguide post 326, for sliding engagement therewith. As with thelinear assemblies members 333 attach the linear slidingblocks 328 with theyoke 320. However, in this embodiment, the linear slide assemblies (consisting ofguide posts 326 and linear sliding blocks 328) are located fore of theyoke 320. - While the
reciprocating drive assembly 318 operates in a generally similar fashion to thereciprocating drive assembly 252, the manner in which theflywheel 314, thecrank member 318 and theyoke 320 co-operate with each other differs. Unlike crankmember 276, thecrank member 318 does not have an inner axle fixedly connected to the flywheel with an outer roller portion rotatably mounted thereon. Thecrank member 318 is embodied in a cam follower block 334 adapted and configured for sliding movement within therace 335 defined in theyoke 320. Thecam follower block 334 is preferably made of steel and houses therein aroller bearing 336 and anaxle 338 rotatively mounted to theroller bearing 336. Theaxle 338 is received insocket 340 formed in theflywheel 314. Brass wearplates 342 are fastened to, the top and bottom surfaces of the cam follower block 334 for improved wear resistance. When thecam follower 334 is mounted within therace 336, the brass wearplates 342 bear against hard steel wear plates (not shown) lining therace 335. - While in the preferred embodiment, a scotch yoke apparatus is utilized to provide linear reciprocating movement, it will be evident that other mechanisms, such as crank shafts, cam and cam follower mechanisms, and swash plates are possible substituents therefore.
- Of course, whereas the detailed description herein pertains specifically to the recovery of copper from copper bearing ores, it should also be understood that the present invention may be utilized in other applications wherein SXEW processes are utilized, such as, for example, in the recovery of zinc, nickel, platinum, uranium and gold.
- Moreover, it will be evident that the invention may have advantageous utility even outside the SXEW process, in other mixing applications, such as in the context of a froth flotation cell, illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, wherein the fluid mixing apparatus is used to agitate a slurry to form a froth, and a
paddle mechanism 32 is operatively mounted to thevessel 102 to scour froths produced thereby. - As shown in Figure 16a, the fluid mixing apparatus can also be employed in a
vessel having baffles 500 disposed therein. - It will, of course, also be understood that various other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the mixing apparatus according to the present invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be understood as limited only by the accompanying claims, purposively construed.
Claims (7)
- An apparatus for mixing fluids within a vessel having a contiguous sidewall centered about and defining a longitudinal axis, the mixing apparatus comprising:a mixing head having a blade body for immersion in the fluids, the blade body having a first end, an opposed second end disposed in spaced relation thereto along a blade body axis, and a passageway extending therealong between the first and second ends; the passageway tapering from the first end to the second end; the blade body further having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer surface of the blade body defining an inside blade diameter ID at the second end, and an outside blade diameter OD at the first end;means for mounting the mixing head within the vessel; andmeans for imparting reciprocating longitudinal movement to the mixing head, the reciprocating longitudinal movement being defined by a stroke length S, with a duration T for each cycle,the mixing apparatus being operable within a set of operational parameters defined by the equation:
where OD, ID and S are each expressed in inches, andT is expressed in minutes; andwherein by virtue of the reciprocating longitudinal movement imparted to the mixing head, a portion of the fluids is urged to flow through the passageway defined in the blade body to thereby encourage efficient mixing of the fluids in the vessel. - A mixing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stroke length S is between 2 inches and 24 inches.
- A mixing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the stroke length S is between 4 inches and 16 inches.
- A mixing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the stroke length S is between 8 inches and 12 inches.
- A mixing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the OD:ID is greater than 1.0 and less than or equal to 1.7.
- A mixing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the OD:ID is between 1.5 and 1.7.
- A mixing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stroke length S is between 8 and 12 inches; and the OD:ID is between 1.5 and 1.7.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/294,563 US6830369B2 (en) | 2002-04-17 | 2002-11-15 | Mixing apparatus |
EP03811311A EP1572337B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP03811311A Division EP1572337B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
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EP1886724A1 true EP1886724A1 (en) | 2008-02-13 |
EP1886724B1 EP1886724B1 (en) | 2009-07-22 |
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EP03811311A Expired - Lifetime EP1572337B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
EP07019312A Expired - Lifetime EP1886724B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
EP07019313A Expired - Lifetime EP1894618B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
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EP03811311A Expired - Lifetime EP1572337B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
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EP07019313A Expired - Lifetime EP1894618B1 (en) | 2002-11-15 | 2003-10-24 | Fluid mixing apparatus |
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AT (2) | ATE440660T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003275848A1 (en) |
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DE (3) | DE60320674T2 (en) |
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CN109454758A (en) * | 2018-11-01 | 2019-03-12 | 长沙宁湖机械设备有限公司 | A kind of cement mixing divides bucket machine |
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DE102008051347B4 (en) * | 2008-10-15 | 2018-12-06 | Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland Gmbh | Method for determining a corrected volume compartment of an amputee, apparatus for carrying out the method and computer program product |
TWI457509B (en) * | 2010-07-28 | 2014-10-21 | Comtop Technology Co Ltd | Fuel supply components and the use of this fuel supply components of the linear drive system |
AU2014290417B2 (en) | 2013-07-19 | 2017-07-20 | Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation | Reciprocating fluid agitator |
US20170253512A1 (en) * | 2016-03-04 | 2017-09-07 | Ovivo Inc. | Municipal Mixing with Reciprocating Motion Disk |
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US4169681A (en) * | 1974-11-06 | 1979-10-02 | Nihon Senshoku Kikai Kabushiki Kaisha | Liquid stirring apparatus |
SU967541A1 (en) * | 1979-06-15 | 1982-10-23 | Предприятие П/Я Р-6956 | Reaction apparatus with vibration mixing |
US5813760A (en) * | 1996-10-24 | 1998-09-29 | Binks Manufacturing Company | Reciprocating mix tank agitator and process for mixing the liquid contents of the tank |
-
2003
- 2003-10-24 ES ES03811311T patent/ES2305571T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 DE DE60320674T patent/DE60320674T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 AT AT07019313T patent/ATE440660T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-10-24 EP EP03811311A patent/EP1572337B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 EP EP07019312A patent/EP1886724B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 CA CA002549983A patent/CA2549983C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 DE DE60328548T patent/DE60328548D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 CA CA2596395A patent/CA2596395C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 AT AT03811311T patent/ATE393662T1/en active
- 2003-10-24 EP EP07019313A patent/EP1894618B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 PT PT03811311T patent/PT1572337E/en unknown
- 2003-10-24 WO PCT/CA2003/001629 patent/WO2004045753A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-10-24 AU AU2003275848A patent/AU2003275848A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-10-24 CA CA002596287A patent/CA2596287C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-10-24 DK DK03811311T patent/DK1572337T3/en active
- 2003-10-24 DE DE60329043T patent/DE60329043D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Patent Citations (4)
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US2615692A (en) * | 1948-02-05 | 1952-10-28 | Muller Hans | Device for mixing, stirring, emulsifying, etc. |
SU858898A1 (en) * | 1979-12-17 | 1981-08-30 | Предприятие П/Я Р-6956 | Vibration type mixer |
GB2114023A (en) * | 1982-02-03 | 1983-08-17 | Uss Eng & Consult | Froth flotation mineral recovery process |
WO2002083280A1 (en) * | 2001-04-17 | 2002-10-24 | Enersave Fluid Mixers Inc. | Liquid droplet size control apparatus |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN109454758A (en) * | 2018-11-01 | 2019-03-12 | 长沙宁湖机械设备有限公司 | A kind of cement mixing divides bucket machine |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
ATE440660T1 (en) | 2009-09-15 |
EP1886724B1 (en) | 2009-07-22 |
ES2305571T3 (en) | 2008-11-01 |
ATE393662T1 (en) | 2008-05-15 |
WO2004045753A1 (en) | 2004-06-03 |
EP1572337B1 (en) | 2008-04-30 |
DE60320674T2 (en) | 2009-07-02 |
CA2596395C (en) | 2010-04-06 |
DE60328548D1 (en) | 2009-09-03 |
EP1894618A1 (en) | 2008-03-05 |
EP1572337A1 (en) | 2005-09-14 |
DE60329043D1 (en) | 2009-10-08 |
CA2596287A1 (en) | 2004-06-03 |
CA2596395A1 (en) | 2004-06-03 |
AU2003275848A1 (en) | 2004-06-15 |
DE60320674D1 (en) | 2008-06-12 |
CA2549983A1 (en) | 2004-06-03 |
EP1894618B1 (en) | 2009-08-26 |
DK1572337T3 (en) | 2008-08-11 |
PT1572337E (en) | 2008-06-11 |
CA2596287C (en) | 2009-08-25 |
CA2549983C (en) | 2007-11-20 |
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