Patent ID: 8361287

Claim:
A multi-element cover system for capture and removal of acid mist from an electrolytic cell in a metal electrowinning or electrorefining process where an electric current is passed between a plurality of electrodes, from anodes to cathodes alternately arranged and submerged in an acid solution or electrolyte, the multi-element cover system comprising an electrolyte resistant material and being applied above the electrolyte surface and below electrical connections of the electrode in order to provide a continuous and substantially airtight seal above the electrolyte, comprising: a plurality of flexible caps arranged between anode and cathode, the caps having a longitudinally concave shape to help shift the acid mist towards the sides of the cell, using the same energy with which it disengages from the electrolyte; lids that span the electrolyte from the electrodes placed on each end of the plurality of electrodes to the wall of the corresponding end of the cell; and lateral enclosures located on both sides of the cell, in the space between the electrodes and the lateral walls of the cell, each lateral enclosure having at least a top side, end walls at each extremity and an inner side projecting towards the electrolyte in order to form a chamber inside the lateral enclosure, either in conjunction with a bottom side arranged above the electrolyte level or with the electrolyte itself acting as the lower boundary of the chamber, wherein said chamber is connected to outer acid mist suction means and said inner side that projects towards the electrolyte has bores above the electrolyte level for, in collaboration with the flexible caps, suctioning the acid mist confined under the caps to the chamber and uniformly extract it along the entire length of the cell, with a mild suction and without the risk of crystal formation due to over saturation of the droplets contained in the mist.