Copper loss into rotary holding furnace slag

- Burrows, Alistair

Title
Copper loss into rotary holding furnace slag
Creator
Burrows, Alistair
Date
1999
Type
Text; Thesis; Masters
Identifier
http://researchonline.federation.edu.au/vital/access/HandleResolver/1959.17/99490
Identifier
vital:10371
Abstract
The Rotary Holding Furnace (RHF) is used in combination with the Copper Isasmelt Furnace as a settling vessel. This study investigated the phenomenon of entrained copper losses into RHF slag. Research work was conducted by laboratory-scale flow modelling, and by plant sampling of the RHF at Mount Isa Mines Limited. Laboratory fold modelling was conducted to measure the residence time distribution of a simulated slag layer in a l;'0 -scale model of the RHF. A novel technique, involving a copper tracer dissolved in an organic solvent extractant solution, was used for these experiments. Plant trials complemented the laboratory work with a variety of slag sampling campaigns. Residence time tests were also attempted on the RHF slag. In combination, the laboratory and plant scale experimental work performed in this investigation helped to highlight some likely causes of entrained copper loss in the RHF. Laboratory cold modelling of the RHF suggests that the depth of the upper liquid layer is • likely to affect the fluid flow patterns, and therefore the residence time distribution expected of the layer. A stratification of the flow was prevalent in thick upper liquid layers, but absent when thin upper layers were used. A stagnant region within the upper layer0 0f the model was identified. The introduction of gas injection through porous plugs caused mixing within the upper liquid layer. Stable waves were produced at the liquid liquid interfate. ' .. Plant experiments were constrained by commercial operating schedules. Several parameters were investigated during two different periods of experimental work. Granulated slag sampling indicated a link between the duration of continuous slag discharge and the copper content of the slag. Evidence was found that suggests the presence of interfacial waves.; Doctor of Philosophy
Rights
Open Access
Rights
This metadata is freely available under a CCO license
Subject
Metallurgy; Copper
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