VHE's Stub Saw Provides an Energy Saving, Low Noise Solution for Aluminium Smelters

Steel anode stubs are routinely replaced in all prebake aluminium smelters.

With increasing automation, smelters have looked for ways to replace environmentally unfriendly gas cutting, at the same time eliminating the HES concerns of noise and hot metal. At some rodding plants, rods are unhooked from the overhead conveyor and stubs are cut using mechanical hacksaws or circular saws, a lengthy process.

For more than ten years VHE of Iceland has supplied an efficient customised band saw, offering energy savings, a low noise profile, clean and precise cut surfaces, and easy and inexpensive blade replacement. The design is such that the rod remains hanging in the overhead conveyor whilst stubs are cut horizontally.

The VHE stub saw is suitable for all types of yokes and spiders, including star and hexapod designs. System automation enables the selection of any of three cut lengths on any combination of the stubs on each anode rod.

The smooth and precise cut surfaces produce by the VHE saw prepares the stub for a high quality welded repair, ensuring good mechancial strength and minimal volt-drop.

Velaverkstaedi Hjalta Einarssonar - VHE is a major mechanical fabricator, offering a comprehensive range of design, manufacturing and site services. VHE now provides all Stimir solutions to the primary aluminium industry, with particular focus on the Rodding Plant. All aspects of design and fabrication are undertaken at VHE's own facilities, ensuring total quality control and on-time delivery.