Capital and operational cost analysis of anode baking furnaces

摘要

Optimisation of the design of the anode baking furnace has enabled a reduction in the number of sections required in the preheat and cooling zones. This can be achieved through better control of the temperature profile and flue gas distribution in each zone and results in both capital and operating savings. When deciding on the type of furnace to be installed for baking high quality anodes for producing primary aluminium important decisive issues to be taken into consideration are: Capital investment; Product quality; Energy consumption. Each of these is important in the overall investment and operational cost of the complete anode baking facility. An anode baking facility, consists largely of the following sub-groups: Baking furnace, including auto firing system, concrete tub and foundations; Overhead cranes; Fume treatment plant (FTP); Conveyors, including anode grouping and cleaning equipment; Furnace building and civil works.