Metso unveils integrated copper electrowinning plant for cathode production

Metso has announced the launch of its integrated Copper Electrowinning (CuEW) Plant, designed to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and safety of producing high-purity copper cathodes. The pre-engineered solution is built to support a wide range of production capacities, ensuring adaptability for various operational scales.

"The CuEW Plant represents a milestone in copper cathode production," stated Lauri Palmu, Senior Product Manager for Hydrometallurgy at Metso. "By incorporating advanced technologies and automation, along with an acid mist capture system, we aim to optimize production while prioritizing environmental sustainability and operational safety. When paired with Metso's solvent extraction (SX) systems, the plant achieves a high standard of quality and output reliability."

Innovative Features for Enhanced Electrowinning

The electrowinning process, which uses electrical currents to recover metals from concentrated solutions, is a critical method for extracting base metals like copper, zinc, nickel, and cobalt. Metso's CuEW Plant integrates this process seamlessly with its proprietary solvent extraction systems, delivering a compact and efficient layout.

The plant incorporates Metso’s automated Outotec® tankhouse technologies, ensuring safety and operational precision. Additionally, its DoubleContact busbar system reduces energy consumption, maintenance requirements, and operating costs. The integration minimizes cathode replacement needs, further improving performance metrics.

A Comprehensive Solution for Copper Cathode Production

Metso offers the CuEW Plant as a turnkey solution, supplying proprietary equipment and technologies for a streamlined production process. Building on decades of experience in hydrometallurgical processes and equipment, Metso positions the CuEW Plant as a cutting-edge addition to its portfolio, ensuring reliability and innovation for global copper production.

Source and Photo: Metso