ProProcess has an abundance of experience regarding copper solvent extraction (CuSX) circuits, specifically for the African Copper Belt. In this illustration an average CuSX plant with a PLS flowrate of 500m3/hr and electrolyte flow rate of 150m3/hr was selected. A typical organic entrainment of 50ppm was assumed in the raffinate and loaded electrolyte respectively. ProProcess supplies a drum skimmer specifically for the purpose of recovering organic within an SX circuit. A 50% organic recovery rate was chosen for purposes of this example, this is however deemed to be a conservative estimate when compared to operational data. In this instance a cost savings of $662,355 can be achieved annually by utilising a ProProcess Drum Skimmer in both the raffinate and advance electrolyte ponds.
The drum skimmer is designed with materials suitable for use in highly corrosive environments, such as electrolyte solutions. The skimmer drums are pneumatically driven, and the organic is extracted using an ATEX rated diaphragm pump. This combination allows the unit to be operated in electrically hazardous areas without the risk of fire or explosion.
Our skimmers require minimal operational input and are extremely robust. The skimmers are placed within a boomed off area and turned on simply by opening an air valve. Once the area has been depleted of surface organic, the skimmer can easily be relocated to another area or left in place until more organic has accumulated. Drum skimmers are very efficient and can recover organic with only 2-5% entrained aqueous solution at a recovery rate up to 4.5 m3/hr.
The cost of a skimmer can be completely recovered within the first 2 weeks of applying the unit.
By investing in a ProProcess Drum skimmer your SX plants will benefit from major organic savings, which translates to a reduced carbon footprint (both in the form of the organic, as well as transportation thereof) and reagent costs. By having less organic present in the ponds, a sites fire risk is minimised.
Our skimmers:
- Have low capital costs.
- Have low operational costs
- Have low maintenance requirements.
- Have high recovery rates.
- Are easily operated.
- Are robust and reliable.
- Are purpose built for the application.
- Are electrically hazardous safe.
- Are portable with flexible operating.
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