Carbon Cathode Bottom Blocks

In this section, we discuss the following characteristics of carlxMi cathode bottom 

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The reduction cell is lined with carbon cathode bottom blocks and side lining. The voltage on cathode blocks is supplied by steel collector bars and a system of bus bars. Below the cathode blocks are the refractory layer and the heat insulatimi layer. 

The carbon cathode bottom blocks are the most important part of the cathode construction, and this statement is not an overestimation. A single crack that reaches the surface of the block at startup may cause shutdown of the cell within the first months of service. On the other hand, the expected service life of the cell is calculated on the basis of the bottom wear. That is why the quality of carbon cathode blocks is given special attention (Fig. 2.18). 

We would like to mention the idea that the materials science of carbon cathode bottom blocks is currently in development. The answers about the optimal complex of... 

There are several grades of carbon cathode bottom blocks with different characteristics (Table 2.3). All producers of carbon cathode blocks have standard grades, yet there are minor differences in properties among the grades of various producers ... 

Fig. 2.20 The principal processing scheme of anthracitic graphitic and graphitic carbon cathode bottom blocks...

Carbon cathode bottom blocks have big dimensions. Unfortunately, ditfing the fabrication process—during pressing or during baking—defects may appear in carbon cathode blocks—cracks, cavities, impurities, and inclusions (Fig. 2.30). If cracks or cavities are on the surface of blocks, they are more or less clearly seen, and during the visual inspection at the producer s or customer s plant in the A1 industry, blocks with defects are rejected as defective and sorted out. They may be crushed and then the crushed material reused for production. The same may be said about metallic or calcite inclusions. 

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