Improving Productivity and Energy Efficiency in Copper Electrowinning Plants

This paper presents strategies to improve energy efficiency and productivity in copper electrowinning (EW) plants. The objective is to develop and propose methods that enhance operational performance within a specific industrial setting. Methodology involves the modeling of the plant based on updated technical data and measurements collected over a complete production cycle lasting four to five continuous days. The industrial EW plant examined has an annual production of 180,000 tons, operates at a current density of 300 A/m2, and exhibits a current dispersion of 8.5%. Key proposals include the utilization of Optibar intercell bars and minimizing the distance between electrodes. Results indicate that these modifications can generate an improvement of +4.3% in energy efficiency alongside a +3.4% increase in production. Additionally, the projected productivity enhancement translates into an economic benefit of approximately U.S.$ 10 million per year.