stainless steel historical improvement project

This paper discusses a novel and unique RFID system for tracking and managing cathode plate inventory. The ability to identify and manage the population of plates in service is also critical for maximising plate life and minimising its overall operating cost. The role of the electrode handling equipment on cathode plate longevity is also examined, including latest developments in Cathode Stripping Machine, robotic copper stripping, and full-automation production cranes. Reference data are provided on plate life for various operating plants including benchmark plants achieving best-practice plate life and operating cost. Others accept high turnover and regular maintenance as normal operating practice.

Some plants operate with their original plates after more than 20 years. This paper examines the issue of cathode plate life and the strategies and philosophies used by different plants in the management of their cathode plate asset. Refineries may view cathode plates as fixed asset or consumables depending on their operational characteristics. Cathode plates are typically the single biggest capital investment in a refinery. Glencore Technology (GT) has over four decades experience supplying stainless steel cathode plates (“cathode plates”) to the electro-refining and electro-winning industry.

Stainless steel historical improvement project