Abstract A procedure for the continuous refining of metals makes use of a furnace which is characterized by certain novel features, viz, it possesses an elongated refining zone in which the slag is caused to flow substantially countercurrent to metal, a substantially circular refining zone in which slag is caused to circulate substantially concurrently with metal, and a slag conditioning and settling zone, into which the slag flows from the two refining zones. The three furnace zones are substantially separate compartments in communication with each other in substantially one horizontal plane. The slag separation zone is preferably connected with the circular refining zone at some distance from the junction between the latter and the elongated refining zone.
A process according to claim 1 wherein the partially refined metal from the circular refining zone enters the elongated second refining zone at one end thereof and the refined metal is withdrawn from the second refining zone at or near the opposite end thereof.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
38 words
A process according to claim 1 wherein slag from the circular refining zone enters the slag separation zone at one end thereof and slag is withdrawn from the slag separation zone at or near the opposite end thereof.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
40 words
A process according to claim 1 wherein the metal flows from the second refining zone through a restricted passage to a third refining zone where the metal is further refined, and refined metal is withdrawn from the third refining zone.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
23 words
A process according to claim 4, wherein the flow of slag from the second refining zone into the third refining zone is restricted.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
24 words
A process according to claim 1 wherein the flow of metal from the circular refining zone into the slag separation zone is substantially prevented.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
26 words
A process according to claim 6 wherein metal which separates out from the slag in the slag separation zone flows back into the circular refining zone.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
40 words
A process according to claim 1 wherein the slag in the slag separation zone flows into a slag pool in which further slag settling and separation of metal from the slag is effected, slag being withdrawn from the slag pool.