New Technology for Copper Removal from Lead by Application of Aluminium: Practical Problems

Abstract

The widely known and used worldwide method for copper removal from lead by application of sulfur cannot always be effective since a part of the sulfur becomes oxidized. The process is often repeated which results in higher costs and longer process duration. Application of sulfur in copper removal from lead and subsequent smelting of Cu dross has negative influence on environment because of SO₂ emission to atmosphere. Łukasiewicz—Instytut Metali Nieżelaznych in Gliwice—developed a new technology for copper removal from lead with application of aluminum, which is used in industrial conditions with a good result. The advantages of this technology are elimination of sulfur compounds, low quantity of the formed semi-finished products, reduction of Pb losses, process stability, guaranteed removal of copper below 5 ppm in each case, and ease of fabrication. However, this technology, in the case of lack of technological regime, may cause the loose Al–Cu dross to burn and glow. The paper shows methods for copper removal from lead with the use of aluminium, as well as problems resulting from application of this technology in industrial conditions.