Process design considerations for the fluidized bed technology applications in the nickel industry

摘要

A number of fluidized bed applications in nickel extraction have been developed for commercial use. Five important processes have gained particular acceptance, namely, sulphide ore roasting, nickel sulphide (matte) roasting, nickel oxide reduction, laterite ore pre-reduction, and nickel chloride pyrohydrolysis. These applications all benefit from the fast reaction kinetics, high heat and mass transfer rates, and the excellent controllability of fluidized bed reactors. This paper examines the design and modelling issues surrounding the above-mentioned applications. Based on the open-literature data, computerized modelling is used to provide generic flowsheets that illustrate the key process features.