Electric Furnace Integrity Practices and Design Improvements Over 45 Years of Operation

The smelter operates a single six-in-line electric AC furnace. This furnaceFurnace treats nickel sulphide concentrates produced by Glencore and third-party feeds and as such its performance is key to the company’s nickel supply chain. The furnace was constructed in 1978 and upgraded in 1994 to double the power density. The sprung arch roof was rebuilt in 2004, and the walls were rebuilt in 2004 and 2015. The hearth, however, remains the original installation. Work is underway to replace the entire furnaceFurnace including the hearth in 2026. Since 1994, the smelter has successfully operated with a single furnaceFurnace. Importance has been placed on the development of furnace integrityFurnace Integrity practices and equipment improvements. Another key focus has been robust practices on matte and slag tapping operations and maintenance. This paper will review the designDesign considerations of the upcoming rebuild and approach taken to ensure its safe and reliable operation.