Metso launches a new, modern anode furnace designed to reduce CO2 emissions, improve impurity removal and increase flexibility in the processing of secondary materials.
The revised anode furnace is characterized by an innovative design, advances in process reliability and simplified maintenance. Of particular note are two new methods for reducing CO2 emissions.
Challenges and opportunities in the copper smelting industry
“Raw materials pose major challenges for copper smelters, but also offer opportunities,” explains Miikka Marjakoski, Senior Sales Manager for anode casting and anode furnace technologies at Metso. “Whether it's new primary concentrates, existing concentrates with declining quality or the integration of secondary raw materials into existing processes - the demand for flexible units is increasing. At the same time, smelters are looking for ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which is not made any easier by the changing raw material base.”
Innovative solutions for modern challenges
“Metso's Outotec® anode furnace is ideal for meeting these challenges,” says Marjakoski. “With innovative solutions to reduce CO2 emissions, improved impurity removal capabilities and flexibility in the treatment of secondary materials, it brings a proven technology of the copper smelting industry into the modern age.”
New technologies for CO2 reduction
The new anode furnace sets new standards in CO2 emission reduction. It is fully prepared for the use of direct hydrogen reduction in an “H2-ready” version. For customers who cannot currently use hydrogen, Metso offers an alternative technology: a steam-gas reduction system significantly increases the efficiency of gaseous hydrocarbon reductants. In combination with oxyfuel combustion at the burners, this solution achieves a demonstrably significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional processes. This has also been confirmed by life cycle analyses (LCA).
The scope of delivery of the anode furnace includes all the necessary key components for operation. Metso also offers extensive expertise in the optimization of melting processes and the integration of automation systems, ensuring seamless integration of the furnace into existing or new plants. Complemented by services and on-site support, smooth commissioning and a quick start are ensured.
Processing of secondary raw materials
Metso also offers a special version of the anode furnace, the so-called Scrap Melting Furnace, which enables the efficient processing of large quantities of secondary raw materials.
“The Outotec® Scrap Melting Furnace offers enormous flexibility by being able to feed any mixture of molten copper from upstream processes and high-quality secondary copper directly into the anode furnace,” explains Marjakoski. “It can also be operated as a stand-alone smelting furnace that only uses secondary raw materials. This makes it an ideal choice for both primary and secondary smelting plants.”
