Close cooperation brings results
Endress+Hauser and Boliden Kokkola developed density measurement to the highest level
New technology was needed for the sludge density measurement of Boliden Kokkola’s zinc plant. In the development cooperation, the expertise of Endress+Hauser and Boliden experts as well as the Thesis worker’s skills were utilized.
Boliden Kokkola’s sludge density measurement
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A critical part of the zinc refining process and filtration of ferrous jarosite precipitate.
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Implemented with Endress+Hauser’s Vibronic Point level detection Liquiphant FTL51C measurement.
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A vibrating level measurement solution that detects even minor variations in the density of the medium. The 1.5-metre sensor is connected to Endress+Hauser’s calculation unit.
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The PFA-coated sensor is resistant to surface sediment.
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Also suitable for measuring solutions with variable density in other industries.
Boliden Kokkola wanted to improve density measurement in the jarosite supply tank, from which the sludge containing iron precipitate is directed to filtration. Balancing the density in the tank also balances the strength of the solids layer on the six belt filters.
“The aim is to use density measurements in daily process operation so that the solution coming from the belt filters has been filtered as effectively as possible to contain the desirable components such as water-soluble zinc, which should conversely be minimized in the outgoing jarosite precipitate,” says Boliden Kokkola’s Automation Specialist Matti Karjula.
A decision was made to implement the measurement with Endress+Hauser’s vibrating level switch and density calculator
“Endress+Hauser had good references with corresponding measurement positions. Based on them, we suggested a solution which fortunately also convinced the customer,” says Kari Isometsä, Endress+Hauser’s Manager for Northern Finland.
Important data to support the choice of equipment was gained from the thesis of process, material and chemical technology engineer Noora Alapiha in which she examined the functioning of the density measurement.
The development cooperation was worth the effort
Ideally cooperation leads to results and benefits that stand the test of time. Both Boliden and Endress+Hauser are extremely pleased with how the right measurement technology enables clear savings in the treatment process.
“The precise density measurement enables optimizing the capacity of the sludge to be treated and the amount of chemicals needed for the reaction. This, in turn, guarantees a better treatment result, which ensures cleaner process waste and more recovered zinc,” Karjula says.
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