New Laboratory and Pilot Techniques Applied at Mintek in Aid of Furnace Containment System Designs

Abstract The Pyrometallurgy Division at Mintek is known internationally for the development of applications direct current (DC) arc furnace technology in smelting applications, more specifically primary resources, i.e., chromite, ilmenite, titanomagnetite, nickel laterite and ores containing precious group metals, secondary slag or dust. From a containment perspective, either an insulating conductive design philosophy can be applied, irrespective raw material being processed. In initial stages project, desktop studies are typically conducted which include selection philosophy, specific to application. To lower risk associated with incorrect and/or system components, it prudent conduct tests on laboratory pilot scale transfer knowledge gained industrial applications. paper presents examples techniques utilized.