Evaluating the Error of a System for Monitoring the Geometry of Anode Posts in Electrolytic Cells with Self-Baking Anode

We consider the problem of automated diagnostics of the state of the anode steel pin in Söderberg electrolytic cell with top current supply, which is the main current-supply element in metallurgical units. It is proposed to use digital cameras to contactlessly monitor the shape and dimensions of the working part of the anode post. The images of anode post sections taken in two mutually perpendicular planes allow evaluating the shape and size of the anode post. The possibility of using digital cameras with a resolution of 2 and 5 MP as recording devices is considered. The components of the error of the system for monitoring current-carrying rods located outside the electrolysis shop, in the rod-cleaning area, have been identified. Main attention is paid to analyzing instrumental errors of the system. Possible configurations of the monitoring system are examined, and a method is described for compensating for the main component of the error in nontelecentric optical systems, the positioning error.