Silver electrolytic refining
The electrochemical method
Electrolytic refining is the premier industrial process for obtaining ultra-high purity silver (≥999.0/1000) from feedstock with a minimum fineness of 800/1000. The system operates on the electrolytic cell principle: under the effect of direct current, impure silver anodes dissolve into a silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution, depositing high-purity silver crystals onto the cathode.
Compared to purely chemical methods, electrolysis is the most efficient route for handling large volumes, drastically reducing reagent consumption and operational costs. Although silver content below 80% can affect deposition speed and require more frequent electrolyte maintenance (to balance the accumulation of impurities such as copper and iron), the electrolytic method remains the industrial standard for yield and sustainability.
KEY POINTS OF THE ELECTROLYTIC PROCESS:- Certified Purity: Consistent achievement of a final fineness exceeding 999.9/1000.
- Operational Efficiency: System designed for 24/7 continuous cycles with minimal human supervision.
- Selective Recovery: Clear separation of gold and Platinum Group Metals (PGMs), which precipitate as anodic slimes ready for full recovery.
Silver electrolysis plant range (BT-ELR-AG)
Balestri Technologies designs modular and scalable systems, the result of advanced engineering focused on energy efficiency and footprint optimization.
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| Features | BT-ELR-AG-030 | BT-ELR-AG-060 | BT-ELR-AG-120 | BT-ELR-AG-180 |
| Configuration | 1 Cell | 2 Cells | 4 Cells | 6 Cells |
| Input Capacity (Full Capacity) | 120 - 144 kg of anodes | 240 - 288 kg of anodes | 480 - 576 kg of anodes | 720 - 864 kg of anodes |
| Productivity (24h) | ~30 kg Silver 999.9 | ~60 kg Silver 999.9 | ~120 kg Silver 999.9 | ~180 kg Silver 999.9 |
| Operation | Continuous cycle | Continuous cycle | Continuous cycle | Continuous cycle |
FLEXIBILITY AND SCALABILITY
- Reduced Capacity Operation: The Balestri architecture allows for flexible operation: although data refers to full capacity (12 anodes per cell), the plant can operate effectively even with reduced loads (down to a single anode), managing batches of various sizes without waste.
- Industrial Scale Solutions (>180 kg/24h): For higher production requirements, we design BT-ELR-AG-CUSTOM multi-module architectures, ensuring maximum efficiency and centralized energy management.
AUTOMATION & CONTROL: STANDARD VS FULL
Our systems are engineered to operate with minimal human intervention, ensuring safety and consistent results.
- Standard Automation (Included): Features a Pneumatic Auto-Scraper (timed scrapers to ensure crystals fall to the cell bottom), 24/7 Electrolyte Circulation via magnetic drive pumps, and simplified discharge management.
- Full Automation (Optional Upgrade): Introduces Automated Discharge and Filtration. This setup is ideal for managing multiple cells simultaneously, where automation provides the highest level of coordination potential.
Beyond the cell: the Balestri integrated ecosystem
Electrolytic cells are the beating heart of the process, but to complete the refining loop, Balestri Technologies designs modular solutions that manage every productive and environmental aspect, transforming a single machine into a complete industrial plant.
Anode Preparation (Upstream): Through collaboration with strategic partners specialized in the melting sector, we coordinate the supply of furnaces for the production of anodes (10-12 kg) with geometries optimized for our cells.
Electrolyte Management: We design Dedicated Reactors for the internal production of Silver Nitrate (AgNO3), ensuring perfect chemical balance (pH and g/L) and independence from external suppliers.
Fume Treatment: Connection to our Wet Scrubbers for the neutralization of acidic vapors and nitrogen oxides (NOx) generated during the process.
Refining Waste and Metal Recovery: Ion Exchange and filtration systems for the total recovery of precious metals from rinse water and the neutralization of effluents before discharge.
By-product Valorization: Optimized systems for treating Anodic Slimes (Gold/PGMs) and for recovering silver from spent electrolyte (Ag/Cu solutions).
TAILORED FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Easy maintenance
Guaranteed battery life with the starter kit and specific spare parts provided. Zero downtime.
Flexible configuration
Available in static, rotary and automation levels (semi-auto to full auto) versions.
Interconnections
Can be integrated with our Fumes Scrubbers, Effluent Treatment and Reagent Distribution Systems.
Balestri Technologies S.r.l.