VAW Experience in Smelter Modernization

In 1978, VAW initiated a smelter modernization program scheduled to be completed in 1984. This program comprises the replacement of 35 kA potlines by a 180 kA line in one smelter and the retrofit of 125 kA pots with amperage increase to 170 – 175 kA in a second plant, resulting in a capacity expansion from 180,000 to 265,000 annual metric tons all together. In the new systems centerworked prebake cells are installed. Due to different local conditions the pots are set side by side in the first smelter, and end by end in the second. The paper deals with experience in the execution of the program and with characteristic features of the new systems.