Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for froth flotation separation of the components of a slurry, having particular utility for the beneficiation of coal by the flotation separation of coal particles from impurities associated therewith, such as ash and sulfur. In this arrangement, a forward product stream is formed in which a mixture of the particulate matter slurry and the chemical reagents is sprayed through a nozzle at a first relatively low pressure onto the surface of water in a forward stream flotation tank to create a floating froth phase containing therein a first quantity of the particulate matter. The remainder of the particulate matter slurry separates from the froth phase by sinking in the water, and the froth phase is separated as a first product.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for froth flotation separation of the components of a slurry, having particular utility for the beneficiation of coal by the flotation separation of coal particles from impurities associated therewith such as ash and sulfur. In this arrangement, a forward product stream is formed in which a first quantity of chemical reagents is mixed with the particulate matter slurry. The treated particulate matter slurry is then sprayed through a nozzle onto the surface of water in a forward stream flotation tank to create a floating froth phase containing therein a first quantity of the particulate matter. The remainder of the particulate matter slurry separates from the froth phase by sinking in the water, and the froth phase is separated as a first product. The remainder of the particulate matter slurry is then directed to a scavenger product stream in which an additional quantity of chemical reagents is mixed with the remainder of the separated particulate matter slurry.