Aluminum Production

Aluminum production is of enduring significance due to the metal's diverse applications, from aerospace and construction to transportation and packaging. Lime, in its various forms, plays a crucial role in aluminum production and supporting ore processing. Carmeuse offers a comprehensive range of lime-based products designed for use in aluminum production, extraction, and processing.

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raw bauxite ore

The Importance of Aluminum Production

Aluminum is a cornerstone of modern society, with its applications extending from aerospace and transportation to construction, packaging, and beyond. In the aerospace sector, aluminum's low density and high strength make it indispensable for aircraft components, contributing to fuel efficiency and safety. In the construction industry, aluminum's corrosion resistance and malleability result in durable, low-maintenance structures. Transportation relies on aluminum for its lightweight properties, reducing fuel consumption in vehicles and enhancing the efficiency of trains and ships. Additionally, aluminum's recyclability aligns with sustainability goals, making it a preferred material for eco-conscious packaging and consumer goods. As a conductor of electricity and heat, aluminum plays a significant role in the electrical and electronics industry.

Lime Slaking Systems & Upgrades

Carmeuse Systems provides comprehensive equipment and storage solutions for aluminum production operations. We offer lime slaking systems, soda ash systems, dry material storage, and more. Our experienced engineers can design tailored solutions, including new lime handling systems, slakers, and retrofits or upgrades for existing equipment.

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The Use of Lime in the Bayer Method

The Bayer process is the primary method used to extract aluminum from bauxite ore, a naturally occurring mineral rich in aluminum hydroxide. This method involves several steps. First, bauxite ore is finely ground and digested in a hot, concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide, also known as caustic soda. This caustic solution dissolves the aluminum from the bauxite, leaving impurities behind. Lime is then introduced to neutralize the excess caustic soda, which not only conserves caustic soda but also forms a solid residue called red mud. The red mud is subsequently separated from the liquid, and the remaining solution, containing dissolved aluminum, is further processed through precipitation and heating stages. This eventually leads to the formation of aluminum hydroxide, which, through calcination, is transformed into alumina (aluminum oxide). The alumina can then be smelted into aluminum metal. In the Bayer process, lime is instrumental in maintaining the correct pH balance and neutralizing the caustic soda, ultimately facilitating the efficient extraction of aluminum from bauxite ore.

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