A transient two-dimensional mathematical model of a horizontal baking firnace is presented. The model combines complex thermal phenomena in a baking process such as air infiltration. evolution and combustion of volatile matters, combustion of packing coke, and heat losses. The predicted results are in good agreement with measured data. Furthermore, the process is simulated under diferent operating conditions such as firing cycle time, airjlow and air infiltration. The simulated results indicate that the fuel consumption decreases as the firing cycle time decreases, it is also found that reducing the airjlow and air infiltration will he& to save &el. The model is proved to be a useful tool for the process optimisation of the bakingfirrnace in the aluminum industry.