Mining

Slurry applications present the pressure relief industry with unique challenges. These include slurry fluid streams with high solid levels and attendant erosion, solidification in dead-flow areas, esoteric and corrosive chemical combinations, as well as high pressures and demanding cycling conditions. Any release of such material is subject to environmental scrutiny and rupture disks from ZOOK prevent possible ecological impact resulting from over-pressurization of slurry stream piping and containment.

Leaching involves the use of aqueous solutions to extract metal ore from metal-bearing materials. There are several leaching methods used including In-situ, Heap, Vat, Tank & Autoclave. All these processes deliver aqueous solutions driven by pumps. At various stages of the leaching process, over-pressure protection to maintain the integrity of the system, as well as protect pumps, valves and process monitoring equipment is essential. In addition, autoclave reactors operate at higher temperatures and use gaseous reagents. ZOOK rupture disks provide vital pressure relief.

There are several processes in the mining industry which produce water mixed with chemicals and fine particulates that must be treated before being released back into the environment. For metal mines, this can include unwanted metals such as zinc and other materials such as arsenic. Extraction of high value metals such as gold and silver, as well as coal washing may generate slimes containing very fine particles in which physical removal of contaminants becomes particularly difficult. These industrial wastewater treatment systems utilize storage tanks, pumps, valves, and piping which all benefit from the over-pressure protection provided using ZOOK rupture disks.

ZOOK leads in standardizing on fine grain graphite as the base disk material, superior in consistency to standard materials. Installation safety, reliability and performance can be further enhanced with ZOOK’s armor rings which eliminate pipeline stresses from affecting the disk.

The extraction process relies on combinations of solvents, acids and diluting agents to further extract and purify minerals. Driven by pumps and controlled by valves, these fluid systems benefit from possible over-pressure conditions using rupture disks from ZOOK.

Stored in silos, bins and hoppers, dust generated from coal and other dry minerals has the potential to ignite. Rupture disks and vent panels from ZOOK provide over-pressure protection for silos and conveying systems.