Use of mathematical modelling to study the behavior of a horizontal anode baking furnace

Large numbers of carbon anodes are used in aluminum industry. The manufacture of carbon anodes involves the preparation of a paste (a mixture of coke, pitch, and recycled material), the production of green anodes via mixing and compaction of this paste, followed by cooling and baking of the green anodes. Anode baking is carried out in large furnaces. Any modification to design or operation would require a careful study of its impact on anode quality. In recent years, mathematical models have been used effectively to complement the experimental work in order to improve furnace operation and design. A design model and a process model are being developed to study the behavior of a horizontal anode baking furnace and to determine the necessary improvements. In this article, these models and their use for the study of a furnace will be described, and the results of the numerical simulations will be presented