Tapping of PGM-Ni mattes: An industry survey

Abstract

Matte tapping is one of the most critical operations of a matte smelter. Every smelter has developed particular matte tapping practices and tap-hole repair strategies that are often based on the experience of the smelter personnel. As a result, very little information has been published on these critical topics. This paper aims at providing the information gathered from a survey conducted in the PGM and Ni matte industries on matte tapping practices and tap-hole maintenance strategies for different PGM-Ni matte smelting operations.