Authors: J. Ndlovu, J.E. Amadi-Echendu, L.R. Nelson, F. Stober
Nickel and Cobalt 2005 Challenges in Extraction and Production 44th Annual Conference of Metallurgists of CIM Calgary, Canada, 2005
Abstract
The Polokwane Smelter Complex (PSC) relies on a single 68MW high-intensity six-in-line furnace to smelt a planned 650 000 t/a dry concrete to produce a platinum group metals (PGM)-bearing matte. As typical of a greenfields venture, considerable attention was paid to the project development and implmentation stages of design, engineering, construction and commissioning. Somewhat unusual though, was the role of a dedicated multi-disciplinary "Operational Readiness" and support team, comprising the owners team and specialists from the furnace designer, HATCH, to effect a safe and rapid ramp-up to the design smelter capacity of 68MW. The challenges encountered in developing an effective partnershi will be discusses. The modus operandi and rolse of the "Operational Readiness" team during the design, procurement, construction and commissioning stages as well as that of the operational support team within the overall ramp-up objective will be presented.
