Factors affecting flotation time include: ore properties (such as floatability and the content of the desired mineral), feed particle size, pulp concentration, reagent formulation, and the form of mineral separation.

Each ore has its optimal flotation time. If the flotation time is too short, the recovery rate will be low; if the flotation time is too long, it will reduce concentrate quality and is also economically unfeasible. Therefore, the flotation time should be determined through experiments and production practice.

The better the floatability of the mineral, the lower the content of the desired mineral, the moderate feed particle size (not too fine), the lower the pulp concentration, the faster and stronger the reagent action, and the stronger the aeration and stirring, the shorter the flotation time.