I have an older furnace dryer which is used for drying copper ore, it operates at a temperature of 1000-to 2500 degrees F.I have low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide in the area.My question is can sulfur dioxide be produced without the ore present at these temperatures.
To determine whether sulfur dioxide can be produced without the presence of the copper ore at temperatures of 1000 to 2500 degrees Fahrenheit, we need to understand the chemistry involved. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is typically formed when sulfur-containing compounds are burned or oxidized.
In the case of copper ore drying, it is crucial to know whether the primary source of sulfur is the copper ore itself or if any secondary sources of sulfur are present. If the copper ore contains significant amounts of sulfur, then the primary source of sulfur dioxide would be the ore itself.
However, if there are secondary sources of sulfur present in the furnace, such as sulfur-containing fuels, any sulfur impurities in the equipment, or other sulfur-rich materials, then it is possible for sulfur dioxide to be produced even without the ore.
To accurately determine whether sulfur dioxide can be generated in the absence of the copper ore, further analysis of the furnace setup and the potential sources of sulfur is necessary. Consultation with an expert in metallurgy, combustion, or chemical engineering would be advised to evaluate the specific conditions and provide a definitive answer.