Dismantling the lining of an electrolyzer cathode unit for aluminum production using hydraulic press equipment and diamond cutting tools

Abstract

Technology is considered for dismantling the lining of a aluminum electrolyzer cathode unit for major overhaul directly within the electrolyzer building. In order to accelerate breakdown of the lining and reduce the effect of impact and vibration loads during dismantling on the neighbourhood during repair of the electrolyzer, cathode dismantling is performed using hydraulic press equipment for impact-free breaking of materials using diamond tools for cutting and boring. Acceleration of dismantling is achieved as a result of the use of hydraulic equipment making it possible to create within the electrolyzer cathode lining material local nonuniform pressure distribution providing crack formation breaking the integrity of the lining.