Increasing efficiency of technological process by limiting impact of corrosive environment on operation of spiral classifiers

Abstract

Most of the technological operations related to the preparation of the output to be enriched and to the production of the final copper concentrate take place with the use of water environment. Water management, besides using innovative technical and technological solutions, is a significant factor in the whole copper ore enrichment process. Mine water resources and surface water of the tailing pond named "Zelazny Most" are the two sources of technological water. Its physico-chemical composition is not insignificant for both the flotation process and the machinery and equipment maintenance. The concept of electrochemical protection of the spiral classifier presented in this article is the supplement and alternative for anti-corrosion protection of the machinery and equipment used in KGHM Polska Miedź S.A. Ore Enrichment Plant. The adequate appreciation of the spiral classifier characterisation and the working conditions will allow for the optimal adjustment of cathodic protection installations with the anode polarization system. Research into the development of an effective protection method will combine two complementary types of anti-corrosion protection systems, that is the passive (a protective coating) and the active (a cathodic protection). The effect of the planned research will be the evaluation of the potential possibilities of the corrosive and erosive impact limitation of the spiral classifier working condition. And, moreover, it will lead to an extension of working hours and the reduction in the costs of the technological circuit.