Getting the balance right - some practical design considerations for solvent extraction circuits

on scheduled commissioning and effective operation of a solvent extraction circuit relies on getting the design of both the core contact equipment and the peripheral plant right. Experience has shown that poor performance of new plants is frequently a result of,utility' systems that do not match the requirements of the circuit, rather than the mass transfer equipment itself. Both the operator/owner and designer need to understand the 'complete requirements, for the circuit to get the balance of the design right. This paper reviews generic issues, frequently overlooked or altered during cost-cutting exercises, which have a significant impact on plant performance.