Electrostatic separation of aluminum from dross

This study investigates the use of an electrostatic separator to recover the lost metal. After characterizing the dross constituents, a preliminary test on an electrostatic separator resulted in a successful separation between metal and an oxide-salt phase. A commercial high tension separation unit was designed through factorial tests and a number of circuit configurations were developed. Using computer predictions and experimental simulations, a concentrate was produced that could be recirculated into the smelter profitably.