The phase III expansion of Altonorte Copper Smelter, Chile

摘要

This paper describes the implementation of the Phase III expansion project at Noranda's Altonorte smelter near Antofagasta, Chile, to increase its concentrate smelting capacity to at least 820,000 tpa, with the potential of treating up to 1,000,000 tpa by the installation of a new continuous Reactor. The previous capacity was 400,000 tpa through an oxyfuel reverberatory furnace and the injection of bone dry concentrates via tuyeres of Peirce-Smith converters. The Reactor will principally treat injected dry concentrate and, together with additional equipment, both new and used, will ensure high availability, increased recovery and will meet stricter environmental standards. The paper describes the process design, the project execution schedule, a review of the major equipment, logistical challenges and detailed design of some of the equipment.