6 Types of Commonly Used Aluminium Recycling Furnace

by Luoyang Judian Professional Steel Casting and Rolling Equipment M

An aluminum recycling furnace is a specialized equipment used for the recycling and melting of aluminum scrap to produce new aluminum products. Aluminum recycling is an important process as it helps conserve resources, reduce energy consumption, and minimize environmental impact.

Typically, there are 6 types of commonly used aluminum recycling furnaces.

Reverberatory Furnace

This type of furnace consists of a rectangular refractory-lined chamber with burners positioned along one side. The aluminum scrap is charged into the furnace, and heat is applied by the burners. The heat generated by the burners reflects off the furnace roof and walls, creating a "reverberation" effect that helps melt the aluminum. The molten aluminum collects at the bottom of the furnace and is tapped out for further processing.

Rotary Furnace

A rotary furnace is a cylindrical refractory-lined vessel that rotates on its axis. It is typically inclined slightly to facilitate the movement of the aluminum scrap through the furnace. The furnace is heated by burners positioned at one end. As the furnace rotates, the aluminum scrap moves from the charging end to the tapping end. The rotation and inclination of the furnace help agitate the scrap and expose it to the heat, facilitating melting. The molten aluminum is tapped from the bottom of the furnace.

Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)

Electric arc furnaces are commonly used in the recycling of aluminum. They utilize electric arcs as the source of heat to melt the aluminum scrap. EAFs consist of a refractory-lined vessel with three graphite electrodes inserted through the roof. When an electric current passes through the electrodes, an intense electric arc is generated, producing high temperatures that melt the aluminum. EAFs are known for their flexibility and ability to handle a wide range of aluminum scrap types.

Induction Furnace

Induction furnaces use electromagnetic induction to generate heat for melting aluminum. An induction coil surrounds the refractory-lined crucible, and alternating current flows through the coil, creating a magnetic field. The magnetic field induces eddy currents in the aluminum scrap, which in turn generate heat and cause the material to melt. Induction furnaces are known for their fast heating rates, precise temperature control, and energy efficiency.

Tilt Rotary Furnace

Tilt rotary furnaces are a variation of the rotary furnace mentioned earlier. These furnaces are designed to tilt, allowing for easier charging and tapping operations. The tilting motion helps facilitate the movement of the aluminum scrap through the furnace and enhances the efficiency of the melting process.

Shaft Furnace

Shaft furnaces are vertical, cylindrical furnaces used for aluminum recycling. The aluminum scrap is loaded from the top and gradually moves downward through the furnace as it is heated. The heat is typically supplied by burners positioned at various levels within the furnace. Shaft furnaces provide good thermal efficiency and are suitable for processing a wide range of aluminum scrap sizes.

The furnaces operate at high temperatures, typically ranging from 700°C to 900°C (1292°F to 1652°F). The specific temperature depends on the type of aluminum being recycled and the desired quality of the final product.

In addition to the furnaces, aluminum recycling facilities also employ various technologies such as electromagnetic stirring systems, fluxing agents, and filtration systems to optimize the recycling process and remove impurities.

The choice of furnace type depends on various factors such as the type and quantity of aluminum scrap, desired production capacity, energy efficiency requirements, and specific process considerations of the recycling facility. Each furnace type has its advantages and limitations, and the selection is typically based on the specific needs and constraints of the recycling operation.