Patent ID: 6419813
Filing Date: 2002-07-16
Classification: C25C

Abstract:
A method of producing aluminum in an electrolytic cell containing alumina dissolved in an electrolyte, the method comprising the steps of:(a) providing a molten salt electrolyte having alumina dissolved therein in an electrolytic cell containing said electrolyte; (b) providing a plurality of non-consumable anodes disposed in said electrolyte and a plurality of cathodes disposed in said electrolyte; (c) connecting said cathodes to bus bar outside said cell using a connection means comprising: (i) a flexible metal strap having a first end electrically connected to said bus bar; and (ii) a collector bar comprised of an electrically conductive, dimensionally stable material resistant to attack by electrolyte and by molten aluminum, said collector bar having a first end having a metal cap cast thereon to provide electrical contact with said collector bar, said flexible strap having a second end electrically connected to said metal cap, said collector bar having a second end electrically connected to said cathode underneath the surface of said electrolyte; (c) passing an electric current through said anodes, through said electrolyte to said cathodes, and through said connection means to said bus bar thereby depositing aluminum on said cathodes; and (d) collecting molten aluminum from said cathodes.