EXTRACTANTS

& SOLVENTS

Extractants are proprietary chemicals, generally complex organic molecules designed to selectively extract particular metal ions. Extractant performance is the single most important factor in solvent extraction.

Extractants are specific for Cu, U, Ni, Co, Zn, B, Li, Sc and rare earth elements. The key considerations are ion selectivity, operating pH, solubility in aqueous phase, chemical stability and cost.

Extractants are used in small quantities, diluted in a suitable organic solvent. The most common solvent is kerosene, commonly used in copper extraction. Other organic solvents are used in specialized processes to suit the extractant. Extractants are manufactured by major chemical companies. 

SouthernX can evaluate which extractant is best for your project.

MIXERS

& SETTLERS

Our mixer-settlers are designed using laboratory testing to determine mixing residence time, number of mixing stages and extraction efficiency. SouthernX uses Mixtec pump mixers for agitation and purpose designed tanks with proprietary baffle arrangements.

Our settlers are designed to achieve even flow distribution after mixing in order to maximize phase disengagement. They incorporate adjustable weir devices and phase off-takes to reduce entrainment and have recycle configurations to optimize organic to aqueous ratios in the SX circuit.

Materials of construction for mixer settlers are selected to meet the transient conditions that occur in certain parts of the process. Materials range from HDPE, grade 316 stainless steel and SAF2205 Duplex steel, through to FRP with Derakane 470 or equivalent resins.

FIRE SAFETY

& RISK MANAGEMENT

Fire safety and risk management are key considerations for any SX plant. Our experience designing fire management systems for SX plants lets recognized Fire Engineers to address risk and satisfy insurer requirements. Our Fire control strategies incorporate foam suppression and water deluge systems.

PROCESS

CONTROL SYSTEMS

We uses our proprietary Process Control System to manage, control and display operating variables in the SX-EW plant.

Using a SCADA based system SouthernX has developed control routines and algorithms which accurately manages process variables.

We generate controlled responses to maintain steady state operation of the process and lead to high overall plant efficiency and safety.

SOLVENT

PUMPING

Pumping SX-EW solutions can be arduous on pump duties. We select the correct pump for each solvent circuit. Pump linings range from EPDM to HYPALON and in special cases of strong acid electrolyte, TEFLON can be used. Pump seals are selected based on our experience of the solvents and fluids to be pumped.

Our preferred pump manufactures supply pumps to specification for solvents and acid electrolytes. 

At certain locations in the process circuit flow control is desirable, and our pumps use variable frequency drives. Operating under the direction of our Process Control System to achieve steady operation and accurate responses to process conditions.

HEALTH

SAFETY, & ENVIRONMENT

Our plants are designed with HS&E firmly in mind.

Our goals are: to minimize contact by operators with solvents and fluids, to control vapour emissions, contain and recover spillage – and above all reduce fire risk.