8000 TPA SX-EW Copper Plant in Zambia

precision technology

8000 TPA SX-EW Plant in Zambia

Sichuan Precision Technologies has successfully implemented the 8000 TPA solvent extraction-electrowinning (SX-EW) copper plant, designed to efficiently convert copper oxide ore into high-purity cathode copper. This project reflects our commitment to providing dedicated service and operational efficiency throughout the copper processing lifecycle.

Process Proposal

Crushing and Grinding: Two-stage closed-circuit crushing followed by a one-stage closed-circuit grinding process.
Pre-leaching Dehydration: Utilizes a disc filter for one-stage dehydration.
Leaching: Conducted using a continuous stirring leaching process.
Washing: Involves a one-stage solid-liquid separation followed by a three-stage countercurrent washing process.
Extraction: Employs a two-stage extraction with a one-stage stripping process.
Electrolytic Deposition: Utilizes the starting electrode production method to produce cathode copper

Ore Crushing

The project begins with crushing and grinding, where raw copper oxide ore undergoes a two-stage closed-circuit crushing process, followed by semi-autogenous grinding and ball milling. This method effectively reduces particle size, allowing for optimal mineral liberation. The concentrated slurry produced is then prepared for leaching, with supernatant water recycled back into the grinding circuit.

Leaching

In the leaching phase, the concentrated slurry is mixed with a sulfuric acid solution in continuously stirred tanks. This process maximizes copper dissolution, followed by primary solid-liquid separation. A multi-stage countercurrent washing process ensures efficient recovery of any residual copper. The leachate, rich in dissolved copper, moves to the extraction phase, while the leached slurry is stored appropriately for further management.

Solvent Extraction

The solvent extraction (SX) phase uses a series extraction and stripping process to purify the copper-rich liquid. This not only enhances copper recovery but also allows for potential utilization in power generation. Residual liquids are returned to the leaching operation, promoting a sustainable and efficient operation.

Electrowinning

In the electrowinning (EW) stage, copper is deposited onto stainless steel permanent cathodes through an electrolytic deposition process. This method results in high-purity cathode copper, with purity levels exceeding 99.5%. The barren liquid from electrowinning is recycled back into the extraction operation, ensuring a closed-loop system that enhances overall efficiency.