佐賀関製錬所における自溶炉１炉化によるハイ・インテンシブ操業と生産性向上

抄録

Since 1973, Saganoseki Smelter & Refinery had operated two flash smelting furnaces together to produce 330,000 mtpy of copper. However, in 1990's, economical situation required the smelter more increased productivity to remain competitive. The program to integrate two flash furnaces into one was carried out maintaining the same production. Modifications were done on the pneumatic concentrate drying system, concentrate feeding system, concentrate burner and furnace cooling system, etc. to double the furnace throughput. A new large cryogenic oxygen plant was constructed replacing two old plants. Single flash smelting furnace operation has started in March 1996. As a result, much improvement of productivity and cost reduction were accomplished. This paper describes about details of modifications and operational results.