Amalgamation Smelter (Gold Smelting)
こんこうせいれんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A type of non-ferrous metal smelting where mercury is mixed with gold ore to form amalgam, and mercury is removed by heating and evaporation to recover gold.
Description
Amalgamation smelters are specialists who extract gold from gold ore using the amalgam process, a traditional method in gold smelting. The main tasks include mixing an appropriate amount of mercury with crushed gold ore to form amalgam, concentrating it by centrifugation or similar methods, and recovering gold by evaporating mercury in a heating furnace. Operations involve high-temperature furnaces, management of mercury vapor and wastewater, requiring maintenance of ventilation equipment and wearing of protective gear. To reduce environmental impact and ensure safety management, wastewater treatment, proper residue disposal, and compliance with laws and regulations are required.
Future Outlook
Due to strengthened environmental regulations on mercury use, the amalgam process is on a declining trend. Transition to alternative technologies is essential, and relevant technicians are required to acquire skills in other smelting methods.
Personality Traits
Cautious / High concentration / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Factory work / Heavy labor / Indoor high-temperature work / Shift work
Career Path
Smelter Apprentice → Amalgamation Smelter → Smelting Supervisor → Smelting Engineer → Plant Manager
Required Skills
Gold smelting technology using the amalgam process / High-temperature furnace operation / Mercury handling / Safety management
Recommended Skills
Compliance with laws and regulations / Metal analysis equipment operation / Quality control / Waste treatment and environmental conservation knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Precision in mercury quantities and temperature control directly impacts results. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires stamina due to underground work and operations in high-temperature environments. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Primarily routine tasks, so little need for new ideas. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Focuses on empirical measurements rather than advanced mathematical analysis. |
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