Thermodynamics of copper matte converting: Part I. Fundamentals of the noranda process

This paper presents a computer-oriented thermodynamic method to analyze copper matte smelting and converting, the system of which was ideally defined as consisting of five major components: Cu, Fe, S, O and SiO2. As an example of its application, the method was demonstrated in establishing a steady-state model for the Noranda Process producing either metallic copper or high grade matte. Process variables such as temperature, oxygen enrichment, charge (or concentrate) composition, matte grade and magnetite content of slag are integrated into one computer model. The model gives the chemical composition of metallic copper, matte and slag phases for any specified condition. Mathematical formulae accounting for physical entrainment in the melts are also presented to correlate the computed melt composition with that observed. The computer model can provide predictions as to the effects of operating and chemical parameters and can contribute to improved metallurgical control.