Application of SWOT analysis to select pyrometallurgical techniques for copper-nickel sulphide concentrates. Part 1. Selecting pyrometallurgical techniques for copper-nickel sulphide concentrates with the help of SWOT analysis
This paper looks at substantiating the choice of a pyrometallurgical technique for processing of copper-nickel sulphide concentrates with a high concentration of platinum group metals. For this, it is proposed to use a modified SWOT analysis, which was also tested. The paper considers a classical SWOT analysis and its stages and gives examples of its application in different industries. Constraints have been identified for the pyrometallurgical processes recommended for analysis. Internal and external factors have been defined for the recommended pyrometallurgical processes. Each of the factors has been assigned relevance and impact coefficients with regard to an appropriate process. The obtained results have been included in an integrated estimator matrix. The obtained results have been evaluated on the basis of such indicators as overall, internal and external SWOT coefficients expressed as figures. The resultant data served as the basis for recommending the relatively most effective processes that would enable to achieve the project goals. This study can be used to issue recommendations on choosing the most advanced pyrometallurgical techniques for copper-nickel sulphide concentrates that will help reduce the number of processes involved and conduct a further detailed feasibility study. The given indicators may change considerably depending on the factor linked to the production hazards. That’s why a stability calculation was performed additionally for the overall SWOT estimates in relation to this criterion. The change dynamics of the overall coefficients is reflected in the graphs. Depending on the selected level of production hazards some processes may swap on the efficiency scale. The authors offer their recommendations on optimum processes that will enable to achieve the project goals considering the above mentioned factor.