Tamano Smelter & Refinery started its operation in 1972 with high current density electrolysis (350A/m~2 of maximum) applying PRC technology. After the start up, four times of expansion have been done, the cathode production capacity has increased from 84,000 t/y to 191,000 t/y. However, recent refining technology with permanent stainless steel cathode enabled to increase current density up to 300 A/m~2 or more without PRC method. In order to increase current density more than 350 A/m~2, experimental work using commercial size cell has been carried out at several conditions, such as current density, PRC conditions, electrolyte composition and electrode condition. As a result, it was found that high quality (LME A grade) cathode can be produced at such a high current density as 405 A/m~2.
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