Solvent extraction plant
Wolfson Electrostatics News
Static electricity in solvent extraction process at copper mine
Recent fires in solvent extraction (SX) plants at Copper mines in Australia and the USA have highlighted the potential ignition risks associated with high-flashpoint combustible liquids...
After suffering two major fires attributed to an electrical ignition source, Australian mining giant, WMC commissioned Wolfson Electrostatics to undertake a continuing investigation into the cause of the fires and to advise on mitigating measures to ensure future safe operation. Both fires occurred inside the solvent extraction plant at WMC's Olympic Dam operations in the South Australian outback.
Spark ignition of kerosene 'foam'
The investigation by Wolfson has incorporated an initial analysis of electrostatic
ignition hazards associated with the process that uses hundreds of thousands
of litres of combustible solvent during ore extraction. A technical review
of the process and procedures together with on-site measurements have already
been undertaken at the Olympic Dam mine. A second phase of the project was
undertaken recently at the Wolfson Electrostatics Laboratories at Southampton
University to determine under what conditions the solvent can be ignited
with a low energy source and to quantify the levels of static electricity
generated in the extraction process. One of the most important findings
was the ease at which solvents such as kerosene can be ignited below their
flashpoint under certain conditions within pipe work. It is envisaged that
the results of this investigation will lead to the publication of a code
of practice specifically related to the avoidance of static electricity
and other electrical ignition hazards associated with solvent extraction.
For further information on static electricity in industrial processes contact Wolfson Electrostatics.