Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How does a copper converter remove iron and sulfur from molten matte?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
copper processing
Molten copper being made into plates.
In the copper processing industry, a converter is used to refine molten matte by removing remaining iron and sulfur. The process involves the following steps:
- Charging: The converter, a cylindrical steel shell lined with refractory brick, is charged with molten matte, flux (typically silica), and copper scrap to help regulate the temperature.1
- Oxidation: The converter is rotated to immerse tuyeres into the molten bath. Air or oxygen-enriched air is then blown through these tuyeres into the fluid.12
- Removal of Impurities:
- Sulfur: The oxygen reacts with the sulfur to form sulfur dioxide, which is removed as a gas.12
- Iron: The iron is oxidized and reacts with the silica flux to form a fluid layer of slag, which is then skimmed off.12
This conversion process leaves behind "blister" copper, which typically contains between 98.5 and 99.5 percent copper.1