Cathode performance evaluation at votorantim metais - CBA

Abstract

The cathode is a set of items with a high cost in the primary aluminum production, this set is usually composed of carbon materials, refractory and insulating materials, which have their basic raw materials extracted from nature. There is great concern about cathode performance, this with respect to cathode life and energy efficiency, several works have been performed in order to maximize the cathode life thereby avoiding costs and waste, more commonly known as SPL (spent pot lining) as well as an hazardous waste to the environment and has a high cost for recycling. In this paper, the main findings extracted from pot autopsies will be presented as an important methodology to maximize cathode life at Votorantim Metais (CBA).