LEAD-ACID-BATTERY RECYCLING AND THE NEW ISASMELT PROCESS

The recovery of lead/acid batteries has long been practised for economic reasons. More recently, battery recovery has also been influenced by environmental concerns, both in the general community and within the recycling plants. These influences will probably increase in the future. With these factors in mind, Britannia Refined Metals Ltd. introduced new technology for battery recycling at its Northfleet, UK operations in 1991. A process description of the Britannia Refined Metals Secondary Lead Operation, the reasons for selecting an Engitec CX battery breaking plant in combination with an Isasmelt Paste Smelting Furnace, and commissioning and current operation of the plant are discussed.