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Why is copper scrap added to a converter during copper processing?
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copper processing
Molten copper being made into plates.
In the copper processing industry, copper scrap is added to the converter primarily to control the temperature of the molten bath.1
During the conversion process, air or oxygen-enriched air is blown into the molten matte to oxidize iron and sulfur. These chemical reactions are exothermic, meaning they release significant amounts of heat. By introducing copper scrap into the converter along with the matte and flux, operators can effectively regulate the internal temperature of the vessel, preventing it from becoming excessively hot during these reactions.1