Codelco, the world’s leading copper producer, chose Outokumpu to deliver flotation cells for its Chuquicamata concentrator. Bidders were assessed in the largest and most profound industrial-scale flotation test ever conducted (1998-2000). The results were indisputable: Outokumpu TankCell®-160 met the strict requirements best.

The official Chuquicamata test evaluation of three major flotation cell types confirmed several benefits of the Outokumpu TankCells®, including: best metallurgy, lowest energy consumption, lowest operating cost (including maintenance), best instrumentation and best hydrodynamics.

All of the new cells are equipped with automatic air control and Outokumpu’s FrothMaster™ froth imaging system. The plant will utilize Outokumpu’s FrothCon and Expert Control System the Advanced Control Tools package (ACT). All this will be supported by a Courier analyzer system, providing timely and accurate on-line assays. Operators will have live video imaging in the control room provided by froth image analyzers. Installing the full Outokumpu high-tech flotation system will make Chuquicamata the most sophisticated flotation plant ever built.

Calculations for this project show that the TankCell®-160 will have significantly lower operating costs (energy and wear parts) compared to alternative self-aerating 5,650 cubic foot cells. The first-rate hydrodynamics demonstrated in the test means that the customer can trust that the cells will operate in the most difficult conditions without problems with sanding, short circuiting or metallurgy. The test also showed that Outokumpu TankCells are provided with the best instrumentation, which means good and flexible control under the full range of plant conditions.

Contact:
Mr. Seppo Ronkainen
Tel. +358 9 4211
Fax +358 9 421 3156
seppo.ronkainen
@outokumpu.com

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