Energy use in the production of primary aluminum

Journal Article · Mon Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1979 · Mater. Soc.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6299852

Boercker, S W

An overview of the aluminum industry is followed by an energy analysis of the processes used in the production of primary aluminum from bauxite. Calcining of alumina at about 1150/sup 0/C, electrolytic reduction of alumina to aluminum metal (approx. 950/sup 0/C) requiring about 15,600 kWh/ton Al, and anode baking at 1100/sup 0/C are identified as the most-demanding processes. This analysis shows that present technology requires an average of over 16,000 kWh of electricity and 90 x 10/sup 6/ Btu of thermal energy, including fuel equivalents of anodes and cathodes consumed in the process, to produce one ton of aluminum ingot from bauxite. Also discussed are the alternative sources of aluminum, such as clays; the possibilities for energy conservation, such as recycling and the Alcoa chloride cell; and the dependence of the U.S. aluminum industry on imports. 21 references.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge Associated Universities Inc., TN
• OSTI ID: 6299852
• Journal Information: Mater. Soc.; (United States), Journal Name: Mater. Soc.; (United States) Vol. 3:2; ISSN MSOCD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290400 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Energy Resources
298000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Consumption & Utilization
32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320303 -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Industrial & Agricultural Processes-- Equipment & Processes
ALUMINIUM
ELEMENTS
ENERGY ANALYSIS
ENERGY CONSUMPTION
FABRICATION
FUEL CONSUMPTION
INDUSTRY
METAL INDUSTRY
METALS
PRODUCTION