PGM Furnace Design, Construction, Improvement, and Performance Optimisation

Tenova Pyromet designed, supplied, and commissioned a 12 MVA circular electric furnace for Sibanye-Stillwater (previously Lonmin) in South Africa. The furnace has been operating successfully since its commissioning in 2012. The paper provides an overview of the furnace performance and campaign life history, and explores the innovative design concepts and improvements implemented. Of particular interest is the use of a novel sidewall lining design that utilizes indirect cooling to remove excess heat from the matte/slag tidal zone without the need to use water-cooled copper. Furthermore, the performance of Tenova’s Soderberg electrode column designed for base metal applications, limiting water use above the furnace, is discussed. In addition, the joint development and performance of an uncooled cast iron matte taphole faceplate is presented. Potential future design innovations to further improve smelter operating safety are discussed.