Design and Analysis of Brick Lined Autoclaves for the Mining Industry

Abstract

This paper focuses on design optimization of brick-lined autoclaves to reduce wall thickness without compromising autoclave integrity. The use of acid resistant, brick lined, horizontal, autoclaves is common for hydrometallurgical processing within the mining industry. To prevent corrosion of the carbon steel pressure boundary, autoclaves are often lined with an acid proof flexible membrane and high nickel alloy overlay localized at nozzle areas. A brick lining protects the membrane against high temperature and abrasive damage that would result in corrosion of the carbon steel pressure boundary. Because of stringent out-of-roundness and deflection requirements, autoclave designers are faced with the challenge of choosing the proper thickness and layout of the autoclaves. Common practice for satisfying stringent requirements is to design much thicker autoclave than what is required to satisfy pressure and temperature conditions. This paper provides a methodology for the design that utilizes stiffening rings for controlling out-of-roundness that results in thinner and lighter autoclaves.