Twin air compressor for energy saving and back up capability

Abstract

Since the first Pot Tending Machine commissioned by ECLTM 50 years ago, all the new options, tools and technical solutions have been conceived and designed only to meet with smelters’ challenges: reduce energy consumption and consequently allow significant cost savings and ensure safe and secure operations. In close collaboration with MATTEI, a world-class air compressor designer and manufacturer, ECLTM has then developed and equipped its Pot Tending Machine with a new standard of air compressor: the twin air compressor. Instead of just one big energy-intensive compressor, two smaller and lighter compressors are in most cases used separately (anode changes), except for tapping operation. By running them alternately at only 82% of their full capacity, there are definite energy savings with the additional benefit of a longer operational life for the compressor. Furthermore, the size and weight of this new standard greatly ease maintenance operations.