Feed processing for improved alumina process performance

US6616902B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• Comalco Aluminum Limited · AU

Inventors

• Michael John Hollitt · Melbourne, AU
• Stephen Charles Grocott · Calle de la Era, AU
• Gerard Roe · Preston, AU

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 25, 2001
• Grant date: Sep 9, 2003
• Expiry date: Apr 25, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C22B1/02
• WIPO field: Materials, metallurgy
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A process is disclosed for the treatment of an alumina process feedstock prior to transferring the treated feedstock to an alumina process for extracting refined alumina from the treated feedstock. The treatment process includes the following steps: (a) heating the alumina process feedstock to a temperature of 400C. to 650C. by direct contact with combustion gases, and (b) cooling the heated feedstock to a temperature at which it can be handled and fed to the alumina process. The treatment process is characterised by controlling the contact time of the solid alumina process feedstock at temperatures in the above range in step (a) to less than 5 minutes.