Converter Aisle Scheduling Using Dynamic Simulation

Abstract

At Zimplats' Selous Metallurgical Complex (SMC), platinum group metal-bearing concentrate is smelted in an electric furnace from which the matte is further enriched in Peirce-Smith converters before refining. A dynamic simulation model using Simio software was created to understand the interplay between all these logistical and operational factors and production throughput. The model helped to identify changes required to the design and operating philosophy. An account is provided of the approach taken to develop and validate the model, the model results, and its impact on the project.