Western Mining Corporation (W.M.C.) operate a 30 000 tpa nickel refinery at Kwinana, W.A. using the Sherritt Gordon Process._x000D_
Following ammonia/air leaching of sulphide minerals and subsequent copper removal, nickel metal is produced as powder by hydrogen red- uction of the ammonium sulphate-rich solution._x000D_
Batchwise reduction in pressure autoclaves is preceded by an oxidation/hydrolysis step to ensure nickel powder quality._x000D_
The reduction process is energy intensive, requiring high temperatures and pressures._x000D_
Present energy requirement is 24 GJ per tonne of nickel reduced. Of this, 95% represents steam and hydrogen consumption and 5% electric power. The design and operation of the red- uction circuit is reviewed, outlining the main areas of steam and hydrogen usage.