Zinc cellhouse, concept and practice at Union Miniere

Union Miniere has been producing electrolytic zinc for more than 75 years and has been selling its technology for over 40 years. In the first part of this paper, a short history summarizes the evolution from the old manual cellhouse to the more recent Super Jumbo plant. In the second part, the present concept of the electrolytic process is discussed, including its lay out, equipment, process control and economic drivers. The robustness of this concept makes it possible to meet the key challenges; namely, to produce Special High Grade Zinc in the requested quantity and with minimal costs. Finally, a view on the future evolution of the zinc cellhouse is given.