Alba boosts efficiency with new technology at Lines 1-3

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) boosted efficiency levels at the plant with a recent upgrade to the new resistor preheating method for Pot Lines 1 - 3. Using principles of lean management and operational efficiency, this new technique is cost and energy efficient as compared to the earlier method.

The resistor preheating method is not only simpler and safer during operational practice but it also contributes towards saving energy as it eliminates the use of external gas or fuel. Further, it enables uniform heating of the cathode and better backing of the ramming paste, as well as reduces maintenance works. And most crucially, it ensures longer pot life due to limited cathode surface burn-off.

This accomplishment was achieved through active inter-departmental collaborations under the leadership of Alba's Manager for Reductions Lines1-3, Nabeel Ebrahim Mohd Al Jallabi.

Commenting on the new resistor preheating method for Pot Lines 1 - 3, Alba's Chief Operations Officer, Isa Al Ansari said:

"At Alba, operational efficiency is a key motivator. I commend all teams involved for successfully implementing the new method and enhancing Alba's position as one of the world's leading aluminium smelters. The new system, already in place at Lines 4 - 5, had boosted efficiency levels of the two pot lines, and it was felt that introducing the system at the older pot lines would improve their productivity as well and enable them to deliver better results."

Alba has been consistently ranked as one of the largest aluminium smelters in the world and is known for its technological strength, innovative policies and some of the latest environmentally friendly technologies.