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Aluminum Reduction Technology— Entering the Second Century

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Abstract

Although the electrolytic process of aluminum production is not likely to be replaced by an alternative process in the near future, the industry has made giant strides, improving its efficiency and solving technical problems. Today, new plants have energy efficiencies approaching those of other metallurgical processes, automation to minimize manpower requirements and excellent cell lives. Perhaps even more important is that the industry can be truly proud of its working environment and emission standards. The present status of the industry is a result of an expanding knowledge base regarding the basics of the process as well as the application of this knowledge to the development of innovative engineering designs and control strategies.

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Authors
  1. Barry J. Welch
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Additional information

Barry J. Welch received his Ph.D. from the University of New Zealand. He is currently professor of chemical and materials engineering at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, and is an international consultant for the aluminum smelting industry. Dr. Welch is also a member of TMS.

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Welch, B.J. Aluminum Reduction Technology— Entering the Second Century. JOM 40, 19–25 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03258805

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