Copper Production

Many different methods are employed in the extraction of copper from sulphide ores (other processes include Noranda, Inco, and Outokumpu flash smelting). The Mitsubishi Process allows the continuous dand irect production of copper blister, at high smelting and converting rates.

Background information on copper and its uses (including Cu computer chips) is also available.

Description

The Mitsubishi Process is used at the Kidd Smelter and Refinery in Timmins, Ontario. To read a description of the process and the smelter, click here or on the picture above.

Flow-Sheet

To examine the flow-sheet for the Mitsubishi Process, click here or on the thumbnail above.

References:

• Biswas, A., Davenport, W. Extractive Metallurgy of Copper, 2nd ed. Pergamon Press, 1980. pp. 231-240.
• Brochure, The Mitsubishi Process - Technical and Environmental Advantages. MMC.
• Gill, C. Nonferrous Extractive Metallurgy. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1980. pp. 43-47.
• Mitsubishi Materials Corporation Website: http://www2.mmc.co.jp
• Sweetin, R. Consultant to MMC.
• For further details and information please contact Ron Sweetin (Tel: (905) 845 6808, Fax: (905) 845 0085, e-mail: sweetin@msn.com ) and Mr. M. Hayashi, G. Mgr. Technology (email: hayasi@mmc.co.jp).