| Abstract Scope |
The thermal balance of an aluminium reduction cell is crucial for energy efficiency, cell life, and stable operation. These would get disturbed from the abnormal conditions in the pot operation, including fluctuations in the bath ratio (NaF/AlF₃) during power outages, anode effects and carbon dust in the electrolyte. This study investigates the impact of such abnormal conditions using a 3D thermo-electric model. Bath ratio governs electrolyte resistivity and liquidus temperature. During a power outage, its variation is modelled through side ledge growth and increased AlF₃ content, leading to time-dependent changes in liquidus temperature. Anode effect is modelled as a wettable gas film beneath the anode that blocks local current and redirects it to remaining anodes, increasing current density, cell voltage, and bath temperature. The paper will discuss the findings which highlights the importance of optimizing the process conditions for stable, energy-efficient operation. |