Abstract: Molten metal is continuously produced by electrolysis of a molten electrolyte which is denser than the metal in an electrolytic multipolar cell characterized by a high and stable current efficiency. Molten metal droplets are separated from the circulating electrolyte along a set of horizontal channels of gravity settlers disposed between the electrolysis chamber and the metal collecting chamber. Thereafter the metal rises to and floats on the surface of the electrolyte in the metal collection chamber, is conveyed to a metal collecting reservoir immersed in the electrolyte and periodically removed to maintain the cell in continuous operation. The coalescence of the metal droplets is enhanced by sealing the cell to prevent ingress of air into the chlorine room and into the front compartment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new and useful process for the production of a molten metal by electrolysis in an electrolytic cell having an electrolysis compartment, a metal recovery compartment, and a partition separating upper parts of said compartments, said process comprising: electrolysing in said electrolysis compartment an electrolyte containing a fused salt of said metal said electrolyte being of greater density than said metal; continuously withdrawing the product metal mixed with said electrolyte in a stream from said electrolysis compartment to a top part of said metal recovery compartment; allowing said metal to form in said metal recovery compartment a pad floating on said electrolyte; maintaining said pad out of contact with said partition; and recovering said pad.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new and useful process for the production of a molten metal by electrolysis in an electrolytic cell having an electrolysis compartment, a metal recovery compartment, and a partition separating upper parts of said compartments, said process comprising: electrolysing in said electrolysis compartment an electrolyte containing a fused salt of said metal said salt being of greater density than said metal; continuously withdrawing the product metal mixed with said electrolyte in a stream from said electrolysis compartment to a top part of said metal recovery compartment; allowing said metal to form in said metal recovery compartment a pad floating on said electrolyte; maintaining said pad out of contact with said partition; and recovering said pad.