FLOTATION
Metso describes its new Sampo™ Cell as a breakthrough innovation in coarse particle flotation that enhances recovery of coarse particles without compromising fine particle recovery
Floating forces
The most significant flotation development this year was from Metso, which in September 2026 introduced the Sampo™ Cell, which it describes as a breakthrough innovation in coarse particle flotation that enhances recovery of coarse particles without compromising fine particle recovery, helping mining companies improve the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of their operations. In Finnish mythology, Sampo is a magical device forged by the blacksmith Ilmarinen that brings riches and good fortune to its holder.
Based on a froth-feeding principle, the Sampo Cell technology gently feeds slurry directly into the froth phase, where separation takes place under lowturbulence conditions. This minimises particle detachment and enables efficient recovery of particles that are typically lost in conventional flotation circuits. The Sampo
Paul Moore looks at a major coarse particle flotation technology introduction plus other key developments in this critical part of the flowsheet
Cell can be applied for front-end gangue rejection or as a scavenger stage to recover valuable particles from intermediate or final tailings.
The Sampo Cell is a pneumatic flotation cell operated using standard flotation control variables such as superficial gas velocity, froth height and reagent addition. Because these parameters are commonly used in conventional flotation circuits, the technology can be readily implemented within existing process control systems while targeting improved recovery of coarse particles. By avoiding high turbulence and feeding the slurry directly to the froth environment, the cell promotes stable bubble-particle aggregates and reduces detachment of coarse particles. In addition, the absence of fluidisation water simplifies the flowsheet, reduces process water demand, and minimises the need for auxiliary equipment. According to Metso, this makes the technology particularly attractive for coarse particle recovery and scavenging applications.
“ Mining companies are under increasing pressure to process more complex ores, improve recovery while reducing their environmental footprint. The Sampo Cell represents a significant leap forward in flotation technology. By expanding the recoverable particle size range and
International Mining | OCTOBER 2026