Annealing for Aluminum Coils

Metals Production

Aluminum coil annealing with a nitrogen atmosphere eliminates the risk of explosion due to the volatilization of rolling oils. Nitrogen also ensures that the surface of the aluminum is not oxidized during annealing, and it can help eliminate staining, which can occur when rolling oils oxidize on the metal surface–causing rejects. Consistent and improved atmosphere quality also results in less edge oxidation, increasing metal yield.

Nitrogen has become the preferred coil annealing atmosphere vs. exothermic-generated atmospheres, which are toxic (contain CO) and combustible, and have the potential for high maintenance costs and production losses due to breakdowns.

Air Products can recommend the optimal nitrogen supply option–including flow rate, purity and supply mode–for your specific aluminum coil annealing operation needs. We can design a system to regulate flow rate, with alarms for oxygen level deviations, for optimization of your process and nitrogen utilization.

Easy Installation

Oxygen concentrations controlled below explosive limits of air-fuel mixture

Reliability

Essentially no downtime associated with liquid nitrogen supply or on-site gas generation with liquid backup

Economics

High nitrogen flow only during critical times, in situ oxygen analysis and closed loop feedback control

Quality

Consistent atmosphere quality with data collection and leak detection capabilities

Proven Benefits

Nitrogen atmospheres for coil annealing have significant benefits and advantages vs. exothermic-generated atmospheres, including:

Improved process control for more consistent product quality
No upfront capital required
No maintenance
No downtime
Lower safety risk
No specialized operator training required
Flow peaking capability for rapid furnace purging (decreased cycle times)
Elimination of soot buildup, resulting in cleaner furnace interiors
More available floor space in furnace area

PRISM® Cryogenic Nitrogen Generators

Our range of nitrogen generators includes cryogenic, adsorption, and membrane technologies. We can meet all typical flow, pressure, and purity requirements, providing a highly reliable gas supply at overall cost savings compared to delivered liquid nitrogen.

Count on Air Products’ expertise…

Let us help you determine how to maximize the benefits of nitrogen atmospheres in your coil annealing process.

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