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Outotec offers two options for producing copper from concentrates: a pyrometallurgical process or a hydrometallurgical one. Which approach and technology are best for your needs is generally determined by the mineralogy of the ore available.
The processing of sulfidic concentrates in pyrometallurgical plants usually occurs in one of two primary process stages: smelting and refining. In contrast, oxidic concentrates are treated in hydrometallurgical plants through leaching, extraction and electrowinning processes.
About 80 percent of the primary copper production involves sulfidic concentrates and Outotec has established a rock solid reputation over the years with its technologies for pyrometallurgical copper production processes. In fact, our pioneering Flash Smelting process accounts for approximately 50 percent of the world’s sulfidic concentrate smelting capacity. With our recent acquisition of Ausmelt, we now offer the Ausmelt TSL process as part of our smelting technology portfolio for primary copper raw materials.
Using the flowsheet on this page, Outotec can help you determine the best approach for whatever raw materials you are working with or to meet any specifications you require. Though the primary end product is usually a copper cathode, we also offer a variety of solutions for a number of valuable by-products including sulfuric acid and precious metals.