Modeling peirce-smith converter operating costs

Abstract

A cost model for the operation of copper converters is developed in this study, allowing an evaluation of the economic impact of changes to operating procedures and/or injection technologies. The model uses material and enthalpybalances for the slag and copper blows in a Peirce-Smith converter. The length of the converting cycle is calculated from the capacity of the blowers and the required blast along with the times required for other operations such as charging and skimming and idle time. Downtime, labor, and materials for converter lining repair as well as other costs such as oxygen enrichment are also considered in the cost calculations. The model is formulated in a spreadsheet using common programming language and is easily extended to examine the costs of alternative operating strategies or injection technologies such as high-pressure, shrouded injection. Example calculations showing the cost benefits of changing operating procedures and technology are presented.