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Mercury retorts

Reduce mercury-related risks with FLS mercury retorts

The presence of mercury poses considerable health risks in precious metals processing applications. Our proven mercury retorts mitigate those risks by safely and effectively removing the toxic heavy metal from mercury-containing materials.

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Key benefits of our mercury retorts

  • Low emissions

    For a lighter environmental footprint and lower safety risk, our mercury retorts are designed to meet the strictest international mercury emission standards. We also offer additional particle filters, which ensure absolutely minimal emissions.

  • Versatile

    FLS mercury retorts safely handle feed materials with a wide range of mercury content, allowing us to meet your needs – whatever they are. They also come in two distinct designs: barrel-style for treating electrowinning sludge and cabinet-style for Merrill Crowe circuits.

  • Complete system supply

    We pre-assemble/test and skid-mount our mercury retorts for easy shipping, installation, and start-up. Our complete retort systems comprise condenser train, a mercury trap, dual coalescing/HEPA filters, and sulphur-impregnated carbon bed.

Barrel retort

Our barrel retorts offer a range of external fuel or internal heating options, providing more flexibility to suite specific needs. A fully enclosed stainless-steel barrel oven includes 253MA internal oven components for high-temperature corrosion resistance, while an integral chilling system is used for cooling.

  • Handle high moisture content and variable materials.
  • Heavy-duty, higher capacity applications. 
  • Ideal for electrowinning sludge.

Cabinet retort

Our compact cabinet retorts feature 253MA internal oven components for high-temperature corrosion resistance, while a skid-mounted chiller simplifies installation and provides optimal retort operations.  

  • Compact design.
  • Excellent containment of mercury vapour.
  • Ideal for Merrill-Crowe circuits.  
Models

Compare our mercury retorts

Oven Size (ft3)
10
20
Oven Heat Input, (kW)
40
70
Chiller Capacity (kW)
40
70

Maintenance & service of our mercury retorts

Our aftermarket department offers reliable and timely supply of spares and wear parts, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal equipment performance. Our specialists are also readily available to provide ongoing operational support. Whether it’s technical advice, troubleshooting or circuit optimization, we work closely with mine site teams to ensure the longevity and efficiency of the equipment throughout its lifecycle. Additionally, we offer comprehensive support services, including circuit audits, preventive maintenance programs, training for mine operators and maintenance personnel, and detailed reporting on equipment performance. Our goal is to help maximise recovery, minimise downtime, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of your FLS systems and equipment.

Learn more about FLS service centres

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Frequently asked questions

FAQs for mercury retorts

Mercury retorts remove mercury using a process of heating (vaporisation) and condensation. The mercury-containing materials is placed in a retort oven and heated slowly. Mercury has a relatively low boiling point of 356.7°C so vaporises before other metals. The mercury vapour is then passed through a cooling system and condenses back into liquid mercury, which is collected and removed. 

Mercury is toxic to humans. Exposure to mercury can damage the nervous, digestive, and immune systems while also harming internal organs.