Abstract
The cathode of an aluminum reduction cell consists of a steel structure lined with bricks and other insulation materials. An efficient cell cathode design has an optimum heat balance that minimizes energy consumption and cell failure. The design relies on the solidification of the electrolyte against the side of the cathode to provide a freeze layer which protects the lining against erosion. A three-dimensional thermo-electric finite element ANSYS model of a full quarter of the cathode was defined parametrically to allow for quick evaluation of design changes. For a given cathode design and cell amperage, the model calculates the steady state heat balance and freeze profile. For validation purposes, model results are compared against thermo-electric measurement campaigns (blitz).