Authors: E. Munnik, H. Singh, T. Uys, M. Bellino, J. du Plessis, K. Fraser, G.B. Harris
5th International Symposium, Hydrometallurgy 2003
Abstract
The Chambishi Metals Cobalt Plant in Zambia has recently installed a novel oxidation/precipitation pressure leach process as part of the COSAC (Cobald from Slag and Copper as by-product) Project. An iron-cobalt-copper alloy, produced by the cabothermic reduction of slag, is atomized and pumped to the COSAC Leach Plant, where cobalt and copper are recovered as dissolved sulphate salts, and iron is rejected primarily as hematite. Cobalt and copper are subsequently recovered as cathode metal in the existing Chambishi operation by conventional electrowinning. This paper examines the challenges faced during the design and subsequent successful commissioning of the COSAC Leach Plant.
