The present invention relates, generally, to a method and apparatus for
electrowinning metals, and more particularly to a method and apparatus
for copper electrowinning using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction. In
general, the use of a flow-through anode--coupled with an effective
electrolyte circulation system--enables the efficient and cost-effective
operation of a copper electrowinning system employing the ferrous/ferric
anode reaction at a total cell voltage of less than about 1.5 V and at
current densities of greater than about 26 Amps per square foot (about
280 A/m.sup.2), and reduces acid mist generation. Furthermore, the use of
such a system permits the use of low ferrous iron concentrations and
optimized electrolyte flow rates as compared to prior art systems while
producing high quality, commercially saleable product (i.e., LME Grade A
copper cathode or equivalent), which is advantageous.