Authors: L. Oshinowo and I. Fok
International Laterite Nickel Symposium, Pressue Acid Leaching, 2004
Abstract
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is used in conjunction with process modelling at HATCH to achieve a superior level of confidence in the process design of hydrometallurgical process plants. The use of these tools to evaluate designs through virtual prototyping reduces the risks associated with making design decisions. This paper highlights the development of a co-simulation strategy at Hatch for the seamless intergration of process modeling software addressing different scales (process time and space): flowsheet level models and equipment level models. With co-simulation, the process design engineers can improve design accuracy, troubleshoot and optimize performance and influence decisions impacting equipment operation by representing specific unit operations in the flowsheet model software with detailed CFD models. Specifically, this paper will focus on the co-simulation of a Ni/Co high pressure acide leach (HPAL) process including heates/heat exchangers and flash system, autoclave and quench.scubber systerm. The knowledge developed can be transferable to other processes.
