CONVERTERS

After the dried copper concentrate has gone through the roasting and smelting processes, it goes into a converter where "matte" is converted into metallic copper. This batch process is carried out in a horizontal, brisck-lined, cylindrical reactor called the Peirce-Smith Converter.

Converting process basically consists of four main steps: charging with "matte", blowing with air, skimming off slag and dumping the blister copper, which is approximately 98.5% pure copper.

Kopar delivered a 13'x34' Peirce Smith Converter to Boliden Harjavalta smelter in 2007. This converter is supplied with dished heads and welded riding rings, made of special steel.