Converters

Developed in the 1930s, the top blown rotary converter (TBRC) smelts and converts a variety of primary and secondary raw materials to extract Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb, Sn, and other valuable metals. Furthermore, this type of converter is ideal for smelting higher-quality electronic waste. The rotation of the vessel provides the ideal heat transfer and reaction for the refining and smelting processes and is therefore one of the most flexible refining units for these applications. More than 40 reference plants (including the first and the largest reference for WEEE recycling) have been installed so far by SMS group.

When the metallurgical process does not require large tilting angles and flexibilities in operation, we can also offer furnaces with lower rotation speeds and a simplified tilting mechanism such as the TBRR (Top blown rotary refining) unit. This unit is less capital-intensive and requires less maintenance but offers an easy and efficient charging system for solid charging material. Additionally, we offer slower rotating holding furnaces for the holding and treatment of certain metals and metals alloys.

The Peirce-Smith converter from SMS group is the next logical step in converting – a new solution that implements numerous improvements. This reactor type is still the most widely applied process for blister or black copper production. It is also commonly used in nickel and PGM production lines. Conversion takes place during the slag-blowing stage as well as in separate final converting phases.