FIELD: aluminium production. SUBSTANCE: invention relates to producing aluminium by electrolysis of cryolite-alumina melts. On attaining the lowest stable voltage on electrolyzer after the latter has been connected to power source, voltage is raised and maintained within the range 4.2-5.0 V in absence of anode effect. Before liquid aluminium is poured onto bottom, starting mixture is charged into pit peripherally in the following order: cryolite layer, return electrolyte layer, and alumina in arbitrary proportions. Burning period lasts 18-40 h. Connection of electrolyzer to network may be fulfilled before liquid aluminium poured onto bottom is hardened. EFFECT: prolonged electrolyzer service life, improved aluminium grade, and reduced power consumption. 4 cl, 1 tbl
