Development of Rapid Shutdown Techniques for Critical Industries: The Aluminum Industry

摘要

In the event of a nuclear attack, the rapid shutdown of the aluminum industry may be necessary to save as much of the industry as possible as well as to protect its skilled employees of the industry. Different problems exist in various sectors of the aluminum industry in terms of rapid shutdown and its consequences. Thus, each element of the industry must be considered separately, with special attention given to the alumina refinery and the primary aluminum smelter. The alumina refinery may be shut down quickly by simply cutting the electrical power. However, any shutdown that is conducted in less than 48 hours will result in some plant damage that will necessitate repair before startup. The amount of damage incurred will depend on the amount of time available for shutdown, and, consequently, will determine how long will be required for startup. Startup times may vary from a few hours to a few months depending on the extent of plant damage. In an aluminum smelter, any prolonged shutdown will result in some equipment damage no matter how much time is available for shutdown. Consequently, there will be some equipment repair necessary before startup. The amount of equipment damage will vary according to the time available for shutdown, pot construction, and the shutdown procedure used by the smelter in question. Startup time may also vary from a few days to several weeks depending on equipment damage and the startup procedure used. (Author)