Uralelectromed aimed to increase production capacity
In 2012, Uralelectromed launched the first section of the tankhouse with advanced tankhouse technology delivered by Metso Outotec. This included anode and cathode handling equipment, permanent cathodes, LSF polishing filters and a comprehensive process control system with advanced tankhouse automation including tankhouse information management system (TIMS) and CellSense for electrolyte voltage and temperature monitoring.
In 2018 the second section of the tankhouse was commissioned. With the commissioning of the second section of the tankhouse, Uralelectomed increased annual design capacity from 160.000 tpa Cu to 320.000 tpa. One more cathode stripping machine was delivered by Metso Outotec for the second section. Currently, the third section is being constructed. Metso Outotec will deliver anode preparation and anode scrap washing machines as well as LSF filter.
Robotic cathode stripping machine increases production and the utilization rate of the main equipment
Experts from Metso Outotec consulted Uralelectromed specialists and provided conceptual engineering for the new generation machine. Metso Outotec applied innovative solutions to ensure production increase according to the customer’s requirements. The new cathode stripping machine was equipped with robotic technology. The machine performed the same functions, such as the washing of cathodes, stripping, sampling to determine the chemical composition, bundling with a steel strap. New six robot design enables a higher cathode handling capacity of 630 cathodes/hour, which is 40% higher than conventional cathode stripping machines, which are typically reaching 450 cathodes/hour.
Each robot is comprised of an arm with a dedicated grabbing device. Four of the robots are engaged in stripping of the cathode deposit, and two others are handling copper cathodes stacking. The machine has also a cathode corrugation unit with a press force of 300 tons. Corrugation is beneficial for cathodes melting in shaft furnace during copper wire rod production. Corrugation provides air passageways in a stack, which accelerates cathodes heating in a furnace shaft and shortens the time for melting.