LME Aluminum to Swing Widely (2017-8-30)

SPIC Inner Mongolia Company Huomei Hongjun Aluminum Power Company is actively advancing the mechanization upgrade of anode changing operations. By replacing traditional manual operations with multi-function unit grabs, it has achieved remote and precise cleaning of crust and sediment at the bottom of electrolysis cells. Operators control the entire process from a safe distance, fundamentally changing the previous high-risk mode of working close to high-temperature electrolysis cells with handheld shovels. Since the company launched the grab upgrade at the end of 2024, the results have been remarkable: the grab utilization rate has reached 87.8%, the average current efficiency of aluminum electrolysis cells has remained stable at 93.5%, anode changing workers have been reduced by one-third compared with previous levels, and labour intensity has dropped by more than 60%. According to estimates, each 0.1% improvement in current efficiency can raise annual aluminum production by more than 50 mt. Currently, the company is accelerating the repair and upgrade of the second batch of six multi-function unit grabs. Once all 12 units are put into use, anode changing operations will achieve a comprehensive upgrade that is more efficient and safer.