PYROGENESIS ANNOUNCES PROJECT TO INTRODUCE PLASMA TORCHES INTO THE UPSTREAM ANODE BAKING PROCESS
In aluminum production, a smelter needs approximately 425 kg of carbon anode – which is consumed during the smelting process – to produce one ton of primary aluminum. The demand for anodes is so significant that several stand-alone manufacturers of high-grade anodes, as well as anode baking systems, are on-site at major aluminum producers and in constant operation – baking new anodes, of up to 6 feet in length and weighing 1.2 tons each1,2. As a result, improving and optimizing this anode baking process is a key objective in the industry, and the Client considers PyroGenesis’ plasma torches as part of that solution set.
“Once again, we have yet another Agreement underscoring the applicability, and timing, of PyroGenesis ’offerings within the aluminum industry,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, CEO and Chair of PyroGenesis. “Global aluminum producers face increasing metal demand, rising energy costs, higher market prices for high-quality aluminum, and new restrictions to meet carbon emissions targets. This agreement is a direct result of our increased sales efforts and R&D, targeting innovative new uses of our ultra-high heat expertise and plasma-based solutions. As stated in our aluminum business line update release of April 20th, the upstream opportunities are numerous and continue to provide additional opportunities for PyroGenesis’ plasma processes. In this particular case, the Client has informed us that a typical anode baking furnace of 3 fires requires 144 gas burners of 200kw each, with the largest anode baking plants operating up to 7 furnaces with 4 fires each. This clearly illustrates the magnitude of this opportunity.”
Under the scope of this agreement, the performance of PyroGenesis’ plasma torches will be analyzed, and the temperature distributions and flame characteristics will be determined. The results will provide third-party validation of the potential in replacing conventional oil and gas burners in carbon anode baking facilities with PyroGenesis’ plasma torches.