| Abstract Scope |
The aluminum industry faces growing pressure to improve sustainability, reduce operational risk, and increase efficiency while meeting stricter metal quality requirements. Storvik’s ICON technology platform is an automated, integrated tapping solution for primary aluminum production designed to enhance operational stability, reduce heat loss, and improve melt quality.
A key feature of the system is the controlled addition of aluminum fluoride (AlF₃) directly into the tapping tube, enabling effective removal of alkali metals such as sodium and calcium and supporting production of higher-purity aluminum. Combined with an electromagnetic stirrer (EMS), the closed crucible remains sealed from tapping through delivery to the casthouse furnace, minimizing oxidation, dross formation, emissions, and metal loss.
This paper presents the ICON concept, highlighting improvements in energy efficiency, process stability, operator safety, and consumables optimization, and demonstrates how automated closed tapping systems support decarbonization and premium aluminum production. |