On the evolution of mathematical modelling of single-step flash smelting of copper concentrates

In the past few decades a great deal of attention has been paid to the mathematical modelling of the metallurgical processes. The success of flash smelting process, documented by its continuously growing participation in the worldwide primary copper production volume, is a result of high intensity of heat and mass transfer processes occurring during smelting. This paper presents the evolution of mathematical models of the flash smelting process. The application of the model for the comparative analysis of the different burner systems in use showed that the single burner system would be recommended mainly due to the lower dusting, which is one of the main disadvantages of the single-step flash smelting process.