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INSIDE THE ELECTROWINNING PLANT The top photo shows the electrolytic cells during insertion of cathode plates. The middle photo shows the Copper clad cathode plates being removed from the tank for processing, and the bottom photo shows the tank charged with new blank cathode plates. The plant included the use of permanent stainless steel cathodes. Unlike older methods that required “starter sheets” of Copper, these permanent cathodes reduced labor and operational complexities. The Copper was deposited directly onto these blanks, and then mechanically stripped off as high-purity cathode sheets. Outokumpu’s cell designs incorporated polymer concrete cells, known for their durability and chemical resistance in the acidic electrolyte environment. A double-contact bus bar system was a characteristic feature, ensuring efficient current distribution and minimizing energy losses. Ventilation hoods were fitted for effective mist control to capture sulphuric acid mist generated during electrolysis to improve worker safety and reduce environmental emissions. Furthermore, the plant used advanced automation for handling and stripping the Copper cathodes. This included automated cathode pulling cranes that lift the entire cell hoods and then the loaded cathodes for washing and stripping. The emphasis was on maintaining precise control over electrolyte flow, temperature, and current density to optimize Copper deposition, achieve LME (London Metal Exchange) Grade A purity, and prevent issues like dendrite formation. The rapid expansion to 65,000 tons of Copper cathode by 2008 further underscored the plant’s success and the efficiency of its design and operations. This increased capacity demonstrated the flexibility and scalability inherent in the SX-EW process, allowing for quick responses to market demands and maximizing the economic potential of the Milpillas ore body. The partnership between Outokumpu Technology, with its deep expertise in metallurgical solutions, and Industrias Peñoles, a significant player in the Mexican mining landscape, was crucial. This collaboration brought together world-class engineering and local operational knowledge, creating a facility that not only met but exceeded expectations. The Milpillas plant truly epitomizes the advancements in sustainable and efficient Copper production that defined the early 21st century. Original photos courtesy of Ofelia Noyola (Author: silvia)

INSIDE THE ELECTROWINNING PLANT

The top photo shows the electrolytic cells during insertion of cathode plates. The middle photo shows the Copper clad cathode plates being removed from the tank for processing, and the bottom photo shows the tank charged with new blank cathode plates.

The plant included the use of permanent stainless steel cathodes. Unlike older methods that required “starter sheets” of Copper, these permanent cathodes reduced labor and operational complexities. The Copper was deposited directly onto these blanks, and then mechanically stripped off as high-purity cathode sheets.

Outokumpu’s cell designs incorporated polymer concrete cells, known for their durability and chemical resistance in the acidic electrolyte environment. A double-contact bus bar system was a characteristic feature, ensuring efficient current distribution and minimizing energy losses. Ventilation hoods were fitted for effective mist control to capture sulphuric acid mist generated during electrolysis to improve worker safety and reduce environmental emissions.

Furthermore, the plant used advanced automation for handling and stripping the Copper cathodes. This included automated cathode pulling cranes that lift the entire cell hoods and then the loaded cathodes for washing and stripping. The emphasis was on maintaining precise control over electrolyte flow, temperature, and current density to optimize Copper deposition, achieve LME (London Metal Exchange) Grade A purity, and prevent issues like dendrite formation.

The rapid expansion to 65,000 tons of Copper cathode by 2008 further underscored the plant’s success and the efficiency of its design and operations. This increased capacity demonstrated the flexibility and scalability inherent in the SX-EW process, allowing for quick responses to market demands and maximizing the economic potential of the Milpillas ore body. The partnership between Outokumpu Technology, with its deep expertise in metallurgical solutions, and Industrias Peñoles, a significant player in the Mexican mining landscape, was crucial. This collaboration brought together world-class engineering and local operational knowledge, creating a facility that not only met but exceeded expectations. The Milpillas plant truly epitomizes the advancements in sustainable and efficient Copper production that defined the early 21st century.

Original photos courtesy of Ofelia Noyola (Author: silvia)

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