Copper extraction is facing new challenges as traditional methods struggle to keep up with environmental concerns and efficiency demands. As ore compositions change due to depletion of deposits, this cutting-edge solution maximizes copper recovery. The Metso Cu POX process is a proven hydrometallurgical method for the treatment of copper sulfide concentrates at lower capacities.
Cu POX – High-efficiency leaching solution
High copper recovery
(>98.5%) for maximum yield
Environmental benefits
Lower emissions and closed-loop water recycling
Rapid reaction rates
Optimal temperature and oxygen pressure
Why Cu POX
As a standard process solution Cu POX is implemented with SX-EW facilities to produce high quality cathodes,
but Cu POX can also be utilized to refine low grade copper concentrates to produce substitute PLS for existing SX-EW plants to compensate depleting heap leaching.
Process flow: Cu POX - SX - EW
The Cu POX process follows a structured pathway to optimize copper recovery:
- Pulping and acid pretreatment – Initial concentrate preparation
- Pressure oxidation – High-temperature leaching
- Solid-liquid separation – Efficient phase separation
- Copper solvent extraction (SX) – Purification for electrowinning
- Electrowinning (EW) – High-purity copper cathode production
- End neutralization – Managing leach residues and process water
OKTOP® Autoclave unit for Cu POX
At the heart of Cu POX technology is the OKTOP® Autoclave unit. Oktop Autoclave ensures high availability offering pre-designed, compact plant footprint, reliable performance, effective metal recovery and robust proprietary equipment for a comprehensive plant unit delivery with guaranteed process performance.. This unit includes:
- Feed tank / reactor
- Autoclave
- AC Agitators with seals supply loop
- Flash tank
- Level control valve, pressure let-down valve
- Blowback tanks
- Scrubber
- Instrumentation and automation
- Autoclave Feed Pump*
- Isolation valves*
- Blast spools*
- Pressure piping*
* Third party partner
Cu POX benefits
- High copper recovery
- Closed loop process steps reducing the use of water
- Tailored integration with SX/EW plant
- Reduce investment risk, one stop shop technology provider
- Full value chain knowhow from ore to copper metal
- Guaranteed process performance
Related content
Contact local sales experts
Your information is safe. Check our privacy notice for more details.
Thank you!
We will shortly contact you. You can send a new inquiry again after 15 minutes.