| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2024 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Advances in Pyrometallurgy: Furnace Containment
|
| Presentation Title |
Composite Copper-graphite Cooler for PGM Furnace Sidewall |
| Author(s) |
Hugo Joubert, Gerrit de Villiers, Pfariso Mbedzi, John Davis |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Hugo Joubert |
| Abstract Scope |
The corrosion of copper cooling elements in the sidewall of platinum group metal (PGM) furnaces is unique in its severity and nature. ‘Chloride-accelerated sulphidation’ has been identified as the most likely corrosion mechanism and is prominent in the zone directly adjacent to the slag-concentrate interface. Tenova Pyromet developed a new composite copper-graphite cooler for implementation in one of Sibanye-Stillwater’s circular PGM furnaces at their Marikana smelter complex. The cooler design is unique as, in addition to the hot face, the sides, bottom and top of the cooler are completely covered with graphite, preventing contact between the copper cooler and the sulphur- and chlorine-bearing species thought responsible for the corrosion. The design of the cooler and test work performed to evaluate its effectiveness are discussed. The coolers have been in operation since August 2022. The implementation and performance of the coolers to date are discussed. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Other, Other, Other |