Submerged Arc Furnaces for processing Platinum Group Metals
Platinum group metals (PGMs) are widely used in various applications due to their distinct properties. Tenova Pyromet stands as a leading technology provider for circular and rectangular Submerged Arc Furnaces (SAF) dedicated to processing PGMs. Through fostering strong partnerships with key clients in the South African Bushveld Complex, we've not only secured repeat orders but also continuously improved our furnaces and product offerings through ongoing collaboration and refinement.
Overview
Platinum group metals (PGMs) encompass six distinct elements known for their notably high melting points, heat resilience, corrosion resistance, and unique catalytic capabilities. Owing to these properties, PGMs are utilised in many industry fields such as in the making of fuel cells, auto catalysts, oxygen sensors, electronic components, and medical tools, as well as jewellery, to name a few. Tenova Pyromet stands as a leading technology provider for circular and rectangular Submerged Arc Furnaces (SAF) for the processing of PGMs. By cultivating strong partnerships with key clients in the South African Bushveld Complex, we've not only secured repeat orders but also consistently enhanced our furnaces and offerings through ongoing collaboration and refinement.
Technical Data
- To our clients' benefit, Tenova Pyromet has mastered the fundamental furnace sizing and design aspects. Each furnace is custom designed based on the process requirements.
- Tenova Pyromet stands as a leading technology provider for circular and rectangular Submerged Arc Furnaces (SAF) for the processing of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), as well as for the recycling of spent auto catalysts and other PGM bearing waste materials.
- Our experience, as reflected by an extensive reference list, including ten PGM smelting furnaces designed and supplied in South Africa, ensures proven technology solutions for our clients.
- Tenova Pyromet has designed and supplied two auto catalyst recycling furnaces.
- Technologically advanced Top Blown Rotary Converter (TBRC) furnaces that are tailored for secondary processing in the Platinum Group Metals (PGMs).
Innovation
Tenova Pyromet's innovative culture and extensive expertise in the PGM smelting sector have fostered a multitude of innovations, ranging from detailed design improvements that improve efficiency and reliability, through to ground-breaking changes that affect the direction of the industry.
Tenova Pyromet has developed an advanced electrode system for base metal furnaces, leveraging over 30 years of expertise in the ferroalloy and base metals industries. A key safety consideration in these applications is minimizing the use of water within the furnace and on the furnace roof. Furthermore, it is important to avoid direct contact between copper components, such as contact shoes and pressure rings, and the furnace contents.
COMPOSITE COPPER-GRAPHITE coolers are offered which provide a unique solution for the sidewalls of platinum group metal (PGM) furnaces, addressing the corrosion issues commonly affecting copper cooling elements. The innovative design ensures that all surfaces of the cooler are entirely coated with graphite, effectively preventing contact between the copper cooler and the sulfur- and chlorine-bearing species that cause corrosion.
MEGtec™ is a safe furnace cooling system offering superior cooling efficiency, combined with a reduced steam explosion risk. It is safe and cost-effective option for furnace cooling applications.
Tenova Pyromet's implementation of uncooled Meehanite ® matte taphole faceplates significantly enhances safety by eliminating the presence of water near the molten matte stream. This design choice mitigates the risk of dangerous steam explosions and water-induced thermal stresses, ensuring a safer operational environment. By removing water from this critical area, the potential for accidental contact between water and molten materials is effectively minimized, thereby reducing overall safety hazards.
The SlagFlo™ control valve is engineered to regulate the flow of molten slag, effectively managing the tapping rate. Additionally, it has proven to be a reliable tool for remotely closing the slag tap-hole during both normal operations and emergency situations. The valve features a water-cooled copper element that is hydraulically operated and directly attached to the slag tap-hole. This compact, easy-to-maintain, and cost-effective equipment can be retrofitted to most existing slag tap-holes with minimal modifications.
AutoFurn™ controls the electric furnace power input and the electrode movements and positioning. The controller software is continuously developed to meet the requirements and demands of each new furnace installation. AutoFurn™ has been successfully installed on PGM, recycling, FeMn, SiMn, Si metal, Ferrochrome, Mineral Wool, Nickel and Copper furnaces. It benefits our clients through automated control of the electrode position relative to changing bath levels, ensuring effective power input and process optimisation. AutoFurn™ can be retrofitted on existing furnaces, seamlessly integrating with existing control systems.
Features & Benefits
Tenova Pyromet can customize its involvement in a PGM smelter project to meet the specific needs of the customer. Tenova Pyromet offers a comprehensive list of services to its clients, including:
- Turnkey plant supply using our innovative hybrid fixed price EPM, and cost-plus supply and construction contract model developed to optimise the benefit to our clients by reducing price and schedule risk, and performance guarantees to limit technical risk.
- Full LSTK execution.
- Design, supply, and supervision packages.
- Site supervision services, including commissioning assistance and operator training.
- Plant productivity analysis.
- Feasibility studies.
- Engineering modelling and investigations, including FEA and CFD modelling.
Safety
Safety is at the core of Tenova Pyromet's designs, reflecting our commitment to supporting our PGM clients.
Tenova Pyromet's advanced electrode system for base metal furnaces prioritizes safety by minimizing water use within the furnace and on the roof. Additionally, it ensures that copper components, such as contact shoes and pressure rings, do not come into direct contact with furnace contents.
Our COMPOSITE COPPER-GRAPHITE coolers enhance safety in PGM furnaces by addressing corrosion issues. The graphite coating on all surfaces prevents contact between copper elements and corrosive sulfur ensuring durability and safety.
The MEGtec™ alternative cooling medium enhances safety and operational reliability in high-temperature environments by improving cooling efficiency and reducing dependence on traditional water-based systems.
Our uncooled Meehanite® matte or alloy taphole faceplate designs help to eliminate water from the vicinity of the molten metal stream, thereby reducing safety risks.
The SlagFlo™ control valve enhances safety by precisely regulating the flow of molten slag and enabling remote closure of the slag tap-hole during normal and emergency operations. Featuring a water-cooled copper element and hydraulic operation, this compact and easy-to-maintain valve can be retrofitted to existing slag tap-holes with minimal modifications, ensuring improved operational safety.
Automation
AutoFurn™ controls the electric furnace power input and the electrode movements and positioning. The controller software is continuously developed to meet the requirements and demands of each new furnace installation. AutoFurn™ has been successfully installed on PGM, recycling, FeMn, SiMn, Si metal, Ferrochrome, Mineral Wool, Nickel and Copper furnaces. It benefits our clients through automated control of the electrode position relative to changing bath levels, ensuring effective power input and process optimisation. AutoFurn™ can be retrofitted on existing furnaces, seamlessly integrating with existing control systems.
