About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2027 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Aluminum Reduction Technology
|
| Presentation Title |
Operation of Restarted and Survival Pots, Highlighting the Successful and Safe Extension of Pot Life |
| Author(s) |
Latifah Alkhaldi, Fahad Khalifah, Subah AlShammari, Sultan AlBoqami, Sahmi Aldossari, Ravintherin Moodley, Umakanta Nayak |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Latifah Alkhaldi |
| Abstract Scope |
In 2022, Maaden Aluminum Smelter experienced significant process and operational challenges, which resulted in a high number of premature pot failures. Remarkably, safe operation was sustained through disciplined thermal control and targeted preventive measures. Based on extensive investigations and historical pot analysis, a structured framework was developed which included defining clear pot restart criteria, pot repair strategies and inspection requirements. Implementation focused on enhanced cathode repair methodologies, optimized startup methodology and systematic interventions at corner locations and sidewalls, which were identified as critical areas of degradation. The initiative enabled an extension of pot life by up to 500 days, achieving maximum lives of above 2400 days for survival pots. This paper examines the key factors governing restart decisions and preventive actions, including Pot Shell Temperature (PST) behavior, pot stoppage history, and adjacent pot conditions, and outlines the applied recovery approach. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Light Metals |
| Keywords |
Aluminum, |