The Steps to Optimize and Implement an Anode Stub Hole Cleaning Machine Modification

The market is becoming increasingly competitive and as a result, capital investments for projects are becoming increasingly difficult to justify. In some instances, the “do nothing” solution may impact a plant ability to maintain a stable and reliable operation. Therefore, an alternative approach must be taken to solve the problem in a cost-effective manner. Alcoa Deschambault faced this challenge when new process conditions resulted in their existing anode stub hole cleaning machine failing to adequately clean anodes. Manual cleaning was implemented to allow the anodes to properly mate with the yoke, but this led to ergonomics issues for the operators. This paper will elaborate on the approach taken to optimize a solution and overcome obstacles so that a cost-effective alternative to manual cleaning could be implemented.