Process monitoring during aluminium production using X-ray diffraction in combination with statistical methods

摘要

Fast and frequent monitoring of the mineral content and related process parameters brings value to the bauxite mining, refining and aluminium production. Changing raw material qualities and increasing process require a better control of processed ore and a more efficient use of energy. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a process critical tool to efficiently use energy during aluminium production. Traditionally quality control of electrolytic bathes, alumina and bauxites have relied on calibration based single peak methods or more advanced full pattern techniques. Recent tests showed that the same XRD measurement used to determinate composition and bath parameters can be used to predict the bath temperature and to calculate liquidus temperature and superheat. This technique saves valuable time and costs for additional temperature monitoring and allows fast counteractions on changing conditions to prevent bath solidification.