The first start-up complex of the new potlines contains 26 RA-300 reduction cells out of total of 196 cells of the new potlines. With the total production capacity of 170,000 tonnes per annum, the fifth potline uses cutting edge prebaked anode technology to meet the highest environmental standards. Dry scrubber has been installed to absorb 99.5% of fluorides, dust and other potroom emissions and the potline includes a closed water cycle to further reduce environmental impacts.

The potline that also includes a silicon rectifier, anode rodding shop and various infrastructure facilities is designed by UC RUSAL’s Engineering and Construction Division.

Valery Matvienko, Head of UC RUSAL’s Engineering and Construction Division, said, “The modern technologies and equipment used at IrkAZ’s fifth potline will considerably increase efficiency and improve the environmental profile of the plant.

“A third of the work to launch the new potline was performed after IrkAZ joined UC RUSAL. This enabled us to use the experience and expertise gained during the construction and launch of the Khakas Aluminium Smelter.

“One of the priorities for the company is to turn plants built 40 or 60 years ago into modern enterprises that match western ecological and technical standards by using our own progressive in-house technologies. The new potline at IrkAZ is an excellent example of such a project.”

Construction of the new potline has been completed within three years. As a result of the launch, 800 new jobs have been created and more than 3,000 people were involved in construction. The new potrooms are expected to be operating at full capacity by the end of 2008.

About UC RUSAL
UC RUSAL (www.rusal.com) is the global leader in the aluminium industry, accounting for approximately 12% and 15% of global production of aluminium and alumina respectively. The company was founded in March 2007 through the merger of RUSAL, SUAL, and the alumina assets of Glencore. UC RUSAL sells its products in 70 countries worldwide and employs 100,000 people in 19 countries, across 5 continents.

Information about IrkAZ
Irkutsk Aluminium Smelter began operation in 1962. The plant is located in 1.7 km from Shelekhov and 22 km from Irkutsk. In 2007 the smelter produced to 295,000 tonnes of aluminium. The plant is certified in compliance with ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 14001:2004.

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