Mass balance calculations in copper flash smelting by means of genetic algorithms

Abstract

This paper presents mass balance calculations using genetic algorithms for copper smelting in an Outokumpu fl ash furnace. Based on the elemental composition of the copper concentrates being fed to the reactor, the mineralogical composition of the concentrate mixture is adjusted by means of genetic algorithms. The macroscopic mass balance equations for the species entering and leaving the furnace are solved and the compositions and fl ow rates of matte, slag, and the off-gas stream are computed. Good agreement between the predicted and plant data was obtained in terms of matte and slag fl ow rates, matte grade, and copper, iron, magnetite, and silica contents in the slag. Predictions are more suitable and faster to obtain with this method than a conventional method in which the mineralogical composition of the feed is not adjusted. Future applications of the formulation are discussed.

Study the effect of different operation parameters on the reaction shaft performance of a copper flash smelting furnace: Mass and energy balance analysis

“…Various studies have been performed on flash smelting furnaces with different objectives, including predicting furnace operating conditions in different situations, minimizing fuel consumption, reducing environmental pollutants, and studying the effect of concentrated particle size and their distribution combustion inside the furnace. In 2004, Sanchez-Corrales et al 3 performed mass balance calculations for an Outokumpu flash furnace using a genetic algorithm. Their research performed calculations for two different feed mixtures to the furnace and observed a good agreement between the modeling results and the experimental results.…”