RY41F Ultra-Slim Relay in Flotation Machines: Reliable Control Under Harsh Mining Conditions

Background: Flotation Machines in Mining Operations

Flotation machines, also known as flotation cells, are essential equipment in the mineral beneficiation process. They separate valuable minerals from gangue by mixing the ore slurry with reagents and introducing air bubbles — allowing targeted minerals to attach to bubbles and float to the surface.
During this continuous process, the system must control motors, air valves, and scrapers precisely to regulate air intake, pulp levels, and foam discharge.

However, flotation machinery presents three key challenges for electrical control systems:

1. Intense vibration and shock – The high-speed rotation of impellers, air compressors, and mixers generates strong vibration that can easily loosen traditional screw-type connections.

2. Limited control cabinet space – The flotation control system often integrates multiple relays, PLC modules, and circuit breakers within a compact cabinet.

3. Continuous 24/7 operation – The system runs non-stop in humid, dusty, and high-load environments, demanding components with long-term stability and vibration resistance.

To address these issues, engineers required a compact, quick-connection, and vibration-proof relay system that could maintain consistent performance throughout continuous mining operations.

RY41F Solution: Compact Control for Flotation Machinery

The chosen solution was the 41F-1Z-C4-1 base combined with the RY41F-1C/D24 relay, both part of RY-ELE's ultra-slim industrial relay series.
This setup was installed within the flotation machine’s control cabinet, connected to the PLC output interface to control:

• The rotary drive motor for the impeller;

• Electromagnetic valves regulating airflow and slurry level;

• Gate actuators and scraper mechanisms for foam discharge.

Each RY41F relay receives a control signal from the PLC or I/O module and switches high-current loads instantly — ensuring accurate operation even under constant vibration.

Why RY41F Performs Perfectly in Mining Applications

1. Ultra-slim 6.2mm design for dense control cabinets

The RY41F relay's compact body allows engineers to maximize panel capacity. With 20 modules linked together via connector bars, the control system remains organized, efficient, and space-saving — ideal for mining automation panels.

2. 1-second quick wiring

Thanks to spring clamp technology, wiring can be completed within one second — no screwdriver required. This fast, tool-free connection saves installation time and avoids screw-slippage problems.

3. Anti-vibration reliability

The spring clamp terminals maintain stable contact under extreme vibration, preventing wire loosening or disconnection — a crucial advantage for flotation machines, where the entire cabinet endures constant mechanical movement.

4. High load endurance

Each relay is rated for 6A, sufficient for motor and solenoid control tasks. Even during 24-hour operation, the relay remains cool and reliable, providing consistent switching performance.

On-site Implementation and Results

At the Russian mining site, the RY41F relay modules were mounted inside the flotation control cabinet. The results were impressive:

• Reduced wiring time by 40% thanks to plug-in terminals;

• Significant space savings within the densely populated panel;

• Zero wiring loosening incidents, even after months of continuous vibration;

• Easy modular expansion, as engineers could add relay units via link bars when the system upgraded.

“The RY41F relays performed flawlessly — no loosening, no signal loss, even with 24-hour vibration. It's an ideal relay for mining automation,”
— Project Engineer, Mining Equipment Division, Russia

Broader Mining Applications

The RY41F series is not limited to flotation machines. Its high-density installation, vibration resistance, and ease of wiring make it an ideal choice for:

• Conveyor and feeding systems

• Pump and valve automation units

• Dust collection and ventilation systems

• Coal washing and ore separation plants

In all these cases, the RY41F ultra-slim relay offers engineers a compact, stable, and low-maintenance control solution that keeps equipment running smoothly under harsh industrial conditions.

Conclusion

With its 6.2mm ultra-slim body, anti-vibration spring clamp design, and modular flexibility, the RY-ELE RY41F relay has become a preferred choice in mining automation systems.
In flotation machine control applications, it ensures precise, reliable signal switching — even in environments where ordinary relays struggle.
RY-ELE continues to deliver high-performance relay solutions that make industrial automation smarter, safer, and more efficient.