The KYF flotation machine and the SF flotation machine differ significantly in their working principles, structural designs, and applicable configurations. The SF type is a self-priming mechanical agitation flotation machine, whose core feature is that the impeller has backward-inclined double-sided blades, enabling dual circulation of the ore pulp in the tank. It possesses the ability to self-priming air and ore pulp, eliminating the need for a foam pump to return middlings during operation. It can be horizontally configured and is suitable for roughing and scavenging operations in medium and small-sized mineral processing plants.

The KYF flotation machine is an aerated mechanical agitation flotation machine. Its impeller only plays the role of agitating, circulating, and dispersing air, and does not have the ability to self-suck slurry. It needs to be combined with a flotation machine with slurry suction function (such as the XCF type) to form a combined unit, usually arranged in a cascade configuration, with the middlings requiring to be returned by a foam pump. This equipment adopts a U-shaped trough structure, with air being pressed in from the outside and evenly distributed through an air distributor. It has low power consumption, light impeller wear, and a long service life, making it more suitable for the continuous operation needs of large-scale mineral processing plants.

Overall, the SF flotation machine is flexible in operation and has strong self-priming capability, making it suitable for independent operation; whereas the KYF flotation machine is energy-saving and efficient, but requires supporting equipment for use, making it suitable for large-scale and high-efficiency flotation processes.