Method and apparatus for monitoring liquid and solid contents in a froth

A method for determining a solid particle content in a froth, the froth created from a suspension of solid particles in a liquid, the method comprising the steps of:

• (A) submerging a pair of spaced electrodes in the froth;
• (B) sensing a conductance between the electrodes;
• (C) establishing a relationship between the conductance and a solid particle quantity in the froth;
• and
• (D) based on the established relationship and the sensed conductance, determining the solid particle quantity in the froth.

A froth flotation device comprising:

• a housing having at least one inlet for delivery of a suspension, the housing having an interior space for retaining the suspension;
• a frothing agent added to the suspension and a gas source that, in combination, generate a froth from the suspension, the froth extending outwardly from the suspension;
• and
• a sensor including a pair of electrodes spaced a known distance apart, wherein the electrodes are immersed in the froth and measure a froth conductance to determine a quantity of medium in the froth based on a pre-established relationship between measured froth conductance and fiber content.