The BATEMAN pulsed column is a high efficiency cost-effective contactor
which enhances solvent extraction (SX)during extraction, stripping and
scrubbing or washing processes. These columns should be considered for
any industrial SX process, particularly those with a fast rate of exchange.
Advantages
The extraction process in BATEMAN pulsed columns is continuous and excellent
results are obtained particularly if many stages are required. Good
process control is possible as the extent of dispersion of the phases
can be controlled by varying the pulsation rate.
The columns are mechanically simple,with no agitators or internal moving
parts,and are easy to install and automate. The floor space required
by the plant is about one tenth that required by alternative systems.
Operating and maintenance costs are low.
Start-up times after shut-downs are quick and operator requirements
lower than for competitive systems. Because the system can handle liquids
with suspended solids or which form third phases no shutdowns are required
for crud removal and draining of interfacial material. A good safety
feature is the reduced risk of fire, as the system is closed and there
is no loss of volatile organic solvents. This also reduces pollution
of the environment and solvent costs.
Applications
Several industrial scale plants are operating and pilot plant studies
indicate many applications for the BATEMAN pulsed column. In the minerals
processing industry the columns are well suited to the processing of
uranium, copper, nickel, cobalt and vanadium. For the chemical industry
there are proven applications for the processing of nitric, phosphoric
and hydrochloric acids and for treating inorganic salts and purifying
organic solvents.
Environmental protection applications include the removal of nitrates
and heavy metals and effluent treatment to produce water which complies
with environmental control requirements. Further scope for application
exists in the pharmaceutical,food and petroleum industries.
Test and design capabilities
The BATEMAN pulsed columns are backed up by BATEMAN’s comprehensive
range of services. Bench-scale exploratory tests are followed by pilot-scale
testing conducted either on-site or at one of the permanent pulsed column
test facilities around the world.
The availability of different sized test columns allows test work to
be done on a scale which best suits the project objectives and the client’s
budget. This culminates in the design, construction and commissioning
of full scale solvent extraction plants. Essential components of this
service are the experience of BATEMAN engineers in solvent extraction
and access to pulsed column pilot plants.
For further details, please contact Mr Rafi Kleinberger, on +27-11-899-3292
or e-mail bsx@batemanengineering.com
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