Properties and production conditions affecting crack formation and propagation in carbon anodes

Abstract

The objective of the present work is to achieve a better understanding of anode thermal shock fracture in the early stage after an anode change in the electrolysis cell. In order to show the mechanisms leading to anode fracture and crack propagation, a thermo-mechanical model of the thermal shock experienced by an anode when it is positioned in the pot was developed. The model allows calculation of stresses and strains within the anode, as function of time. The time interval of the modelling lasts for 1 hour after the anode change.