Multicircuit approach for electrolytic cells, a novel method to force current balance in electrowinning plants

The most used technology for obtaining pure copper in oxide ore copper mining is LIX-SX-EW (leaching-solvent extraction-electrowinning). In this process, the maximum allowable current which does not lead to electrode short-circuit sets the production limit. This is a major drawback if equipotential...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Wiechmann, E.P., Pagliero, A.J., Vidal, G.A.
Format: Conference Proceeding
Language:English
Subjects:
Bars
Cathodes
Chemicals
Conductivity
Copper
Current distribution
Electrodes
Lead
Ores
Production
Online Access:Request full text
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Summary:The most used technology for obtaining pure copper in oxide ore copper mining is LIX-SX-EW (leaching-solvent extraction-electrowinning). In this process, the maximum allowable current which does not lead to electrode short-circuit sets the production limit. This is a major drawback if equipotential bars to connect the electrodes are used. This common practice exhibits a high dispersion value for the current distribution. This paper presents a connection arrangement of the electrowinning cells to balance cathode currents. The new connection drives the current through more balanced resistivity channels. Moreover, the uniform level of current achieved produces a more standardized product. Both, chemical and physical quality of cathodes is improved. Finally, the approach limits anode-cathode overcurrent preventing short circuit formation. Thus, current efficiency and plant operation are also improved.
DOI:10.1109/ISIE.2000.930348