Zinc

Over 80% of the zinc produced today utilizes an electrolytic process. After ore is mined, milled, concentrated, and roasted, the resulting powder is leached into a solution. This solution is then electrolyzed in a cell fitted with aluminum cathodes to extract the zinc. Refined zinc is deposited on the aluminum cathode which is subsequently removed and stripped. Recent upgrades to zinc smelters have resulted in significant improvements in current efficiency and modern zinc process technology utilizes current approaching 300kA.

Process Applications

High accuracy measurement of voltage and current is needed to...

• Provide current data to process systems for optimum control
• Detect unexpected changes in process efficiency
• Accurately evaluate impact of intended/trial process changes
• Objectively compare multiple process lines
• Improve visibility of process energy utilization and costs

Suitable DynAmp Products

Power Conversion Applications

The zinc refining process is most efficient with highly stable and reliable from power conversion equipment. Current instability leads to numerous process efficiency problems thereby increasing the costs. Such instability can cause process cell damage and even endanger staff and facility.

Highly dependable and responsive measurement systems are needed to...

• Provide current data to rectifier control systems for optimum performance and stability
• Provide overall multi-rectifier balance indication
• Provide a backup "totalized" current measurement signal for total mainline current
• Sense power conversion equipment failure modes quickly to protect process, equipment, and personnel
• Analyze rectifiers' condition to determine maintenance requirements
• Complete acceptance testing of new/replacement rectifiers

Suitable DynAmp Products