Chinalco makes a significant breakthrough in electrolytic aluminum technology

Aluminum Corporation of China (Chinalco) took seven years to develop the technology to produce electrolytic aluminum using a 600 kA super-large cell. Recognized as a significant project under 863 Program in China in the year 2009, the technology was tested & certified by China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNIA) and Ministry of Science and Technology.

Shenyang Aluminum & Magnesium Engineering &Research Institute (SAMI) had designed this technology and it was tested in a plant built by the Liancheng Branch of Chinalco. It was designed to solve technical difficulties like magnetic fluid stability as well as operational stability of 600 kA super-large energy-efficient electrolytic cells. Experts believe this is a globally advanced technology and offers great energy conservation.

In recent years, China has constantly focused on the requirements for industrial upgrading and environmental protection, putting electrolytic aluminum industry in a tough situation with energy costs rising and market going down.

After being tested for 1.5 years, it was finally proved that the project was a success. DC electricity was 12,136 kWh that was consumed for producing every ton of aluminum thus making it the largest as well as the world’s most energy-efficient electrolytic cell. At the same time, there were few supplementary techniques that were developed for the 600 kA cell. It was also applied to 500 kA cells and many others, helping achieve an outstanding energy-saving effect.