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Alcan Primary Metal Group, Kitimat, BC
Point Breaker Feed System

Background

The existing VS Soderberg pot control system based on a centralized computer and I/O system was upgraded to point breaker feed with distributed controls at the local potline supervised by network computers.

The Project

Andritz Automation worked with Alcan from planning, scoping, budgeting, project justification, designing and managing of the installation, to designing and programming the software for the potline computer system, as well as the network and commissioning of the system.

Benefits

Improved current efficiency, reduction in frequency of anode effects, reduced emissions of pot gases, and improved operational efficiencies are all significant benefits that allow an existing older potline to remain competitive with new lines. The distributed architecture of the new computer systems allows multiple levels of backup operating modes as well as implementation of more sophisticated strategies to improve pot operation and extend pot life.