Arvida Aluminum Smelter — AP60 Technological Center, Start-Up Performance and Development of the Technology

Abstract

The 38 cells of the Arvida Aluminum Smelter-AP60 Technological Center were started at the end of 2013. This successful start-up has established a new benchmark for the primary metal aluminum industry in terms of productivity, robustness, environmental performance and CAPEX/OPEX benefits. The cell start-up methodology was fine-tuned using process data analysis and specific R&D instrumentation. An in-depth measurement activity was performed during the different phases of cell start-up to characterize the mechanical behavior of shells, superstructures and busbars, thus allowing characterization of the robustness of the mechanical cell design. In parallel, measurements were taken to evaluate the cell lining performance and cell stability. After six months of operation, the robustness of the cell technology and the operational and environmental results have opened the way for improved performance and amperage increase.