DUBAL supports GAC at regional carbon forum

In the primary aluminum industry, carbon ranks as a major raw material. Not only is carbon used as the cathode lining of the electrolytic reduction cells in which aluminum is extracted from alumina, but it's also the basis for the anodes suspended in the electrolytic solution. Importantly, the anodes used in aluminum smelters, alone account for 25 to 30 percent of production costs per ton — such that anode quality (a function of raw material quality) can impact substantially on the profitability of the smelter operation, as well as the environment. Efficient use of anode in the reduction cell is thus of vital importance to the industry.
These factors underscore the rationale for the Gulf Aluminium Council (GAC) Carbon Conference, which will take place in Dubai from Sept. 2 to 5 and has been arranged for GAC members only. The agenda will focus on the quality of raw materials used — especially in terms of impurities and sulfur content — the anode production process and the performance of the anodes in the cells.
For DUBAL — the entirely state-owned corporation that operates the largest smelter in the Gulf region and the world's largest single-site smelter using pre-baked anode technology — the GAC Carbon Conference offers an opportunity to demonstrate its leadership position in the local, regional and international aluminum industry. A two-pronged approach has been adopted — DUBAL's Saleh Ahmed Rabba, GM, reduction materials, is included in the line-up of speakers and will use the opportunity to share best practice, and the company will host a dinner for the delegates on Sept. 3.
A coordinating body that represents, promotes and protects the interests of the aluminum industry within the Gulf, the GAC's main objectives are to provide a forum to develop strategies for common issues and concerns facing the aluminum industry in the region.