D18+: Potline modernisation at DUBAL

Abstract

Dubai Aluminium commenced operation in 1979 with three potlines utilising Kaiser P69 cell technology. Upgraded to D18 technology, the original potlines have been constantly improved to increase their efficiency and productive output, with amperage increasing from 150 to 202kA. In order to make further significant progress in the original potlines, DUBAL has initiated a project to completely revise and modernise the cell technology. Designated D18+, the new inhouse design incorporates the latest cell technology such as magnetic compensation and proper point feeders within the existing footprint of the original D18 potline infrastructure. Seven D18+ cells were constructed and started-up in March 2012 and are now successfully meeting their key design targets with net specific energy consumption of 12.75 DC kWh/kg Al and anode effect frequency <0.02/cell/day. The test cells are now currently being fully evaluated before implementing throughout DUBAL’s D18 potlines.