Advances in powder metallurgy are expanding the potential of aluminium matrix composites for ships, offshore platforms and underwater equipment, with improved corrosion resistance, mechanical performance and lightweight properties. Aluminium composites could offer new material options for demanding marine environments, where corrosion, mechanical stresses and seawater exposure challenge conventional alloys. Recent research reviews how powder metallurgy is helping develop reinforced aluminium materials with properties suited to these operating conditions. Powder metallurgy improves aluminium composite performance Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) combine an aluminium matrix with reinforcing materials to enhance performance compared with conventional monolithic aluminium alloys. Their...
LME aluminium prices advanced on October 28, with cash and three-month contracts posting gains. The Asian Reference Price moved lower, while exchange opening stocks and cancelled warrants declined. Alumina Platts prices recorded a stronger increase. The cash bid rose 0.73 per cent to USD 3,100 per tonne from USD 3,077.50 per tonne. The cash offer increased 0.75 per cent to USD 3,101 per tonne on October 28 from USD 3,078 per tonne previously. Three-month aluminium prices also moved higher. The bid climbed 0.70 per cent to USD 3,083.50 per tonne from USD 3,062 per tonne, while the offer advanced 0.65 per cent to USD 3,084 per tonne from USD 3,064 per tonne. Explore the production, demand and consumption forecasts of bauxite and alumina in our report: " Global Bauxite & Alumina Market...
Grow with
AL Circle
Regions across the globe are part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and have witnessed the significant impact of defence supply, all thanks to the comprehensive list released for the defence industry, which includes everything composed of aluminium, among other materials. The consortium not only points to the relevance of such resources for the military powers of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization alone but also emphasises upon the uninterrupted continuity of the supply chain. Image Source: https://ilfproducts.co.uk/ It would not be wrong to say that aluminium has become synonymous with metals that can withstand corrosion whilst also cutting weight across missile and aircraft parts and even high-end applications. Such characteristics make it possible for metals such as...
Alupro, the aluminium-packaging industry body, has issued a rallying call to Members of Parliament, urging them to throw their weight behind a deposit return scheme and bolster investment in recycling infrastructure. The organisation recently hosted an event at the House of Commons, sponsored by UK’s Labour MP Rupa Huq and featuring a keynote speech by Conservative MP Bob Blackman. Image Source: Alupro During the event, the enterprise encouraged policymakers to sign a three-point pledge outlining a roadmap for achieving a circular economy. The pledge centres on three key objectives: implementing a world-class Deposit Return Scheme by 2027, promoting sustainable packaging through an extended producer responsibility system that incentivises the use of recyclable materials, and boosting...
In November 2024, China imported 280,000 tonnes of aluminium, including unwrought aluminium and aluminium products. The import volume reflected a double-digit fall, precisely 17.6 per cent, according to China customs data. Image Source: iStock Nonetheless, from January to November, the country’s total imports witnessed a 26.2 per cent Y-o-Y rise, amounting to 3.45 million tonnes. Till October 2024, China imported 175,000 tonnes of primary aluminium, up by 27.5 per cent M-o-M but down by 19.3 per cent Y-o-Y. From January to October, the cumulative import volume of primary aluminium was 1.824 million tonnes, up by 55.5 per cent Y-o-Y. In October, Russia was the highest source of China’s primary aluminium imports, accounting for 55.4 per cent. The other two major sources were India and...
On December 17, Stellantis unveiled a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate its production operations in Italy, as reported by Reuters. The announcement was made during a meeting with Industry Minister Adolfo Urso, alongside representatives from suppliers and trade unions. This initiative marks a significant step toward mending ties with Italy's government, which had frequently clashed with former CEO Carlos Tavares. Stellantis N.V. is a multinational automotive manufacturer formed in 2021 from the merger of the Italian–American conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and the French PSA Group. As of 2023, Stellantis was the world's fourth-largest automaker by sales, behind Toyota, Volkswagen Group, and Hyundai Motor Group. Stellantis designs, manufactures, and sells automobiles under its...
Antec, a renowned manufacturer of computer chassis, has announced the launch of its latest aluminium ITX gaming case, the Performance 1 M. This sleek and compact case is designed specifically for high-performance ITX builds, boasting a durable and modern aluminium construction. The gaming case features aluminium side panels and a rear frame, providing a robust and stylish metallic finish that is available in two colours- jet black and adventurine green. With its compact dimensions, this case is well-suited for ITX motherboards, striking the ideal balance between aesthetics and functionality. One of the standout features of the aluminium case is its innovative airflow design, which optimises system cooling through strategically placed perforated panels. These panels facilitate effective...
Aluminium Stewardship Initiative has recognised Nemak S.A.B de C.V, a global automotive parts manufacturing company, with its Chain of Custody (Coc) Standard V2 (2022) Certification. The recognition is for aluminium component production for the automotive industry at Nemak Poland SP. Z O.O. and Nemak Slovakia s.r.o. facilities. The certification also covers Nemak’s outsourcing contractors. Both Nemak Poland SP. Z O.O. and Nemak Slovakia s.r.o. facilities produce aluminium automotive components, including engine blocks, transmission cases, e-engine housings, shock towers and battery housings. Nemak’s facilities have obtained the certification after going through a stringent, independent, third-party audit by TÜV Rheinland Cert GmbH. Earlier, in March 2024, the facilities achieved ASI...
In a significant move to bolster its commitment to sustainable aluminium production, Hydro Energi AS, a subsidiary of the Norwegian aluminium and renewable energy company Hydro, has entered into a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Å Energi. The 10-year contract, which commences in 2025 and runs through 2034, guarantees the delivery of 438 GWh of electricity annually to Hydro's Norwegian aluminium plants, totaling 4.38 TWh over the contract period. Image Source: www.hydro.com This agreement not only ensures a stable and reliable supply of renewable energy for Hydro's aluminium production but also underscores the company's dedication to reducing its carbon footprint. By leveraging Å Energi's clean energy, Hydro's aluminium production in Norway will continue to boast a carbon...
ECKART, a leading international manufacturer of metallic and pearlescent pigments for the paints and coatings industry, the graphic arts, plastics, aerated concrete, and cosmetics industries, is reportedly forming a joint venture with Runaya, a notable name in the green aluminium recovery business. Image Source: Energetica India The joint venture firm will establish a facility in Odisha to produce the most sustainable spherical atomised aluminium granules , leveraging India's position as a global hub for low-cost and cutting-edge manufacturing solutions. This new project aligns with the growing demand for atomised aluminium granules in India and the world, catering to high-end applications in aerospace, solar panels, and high-value effect pigments. With sustainability as the cornerstone...
On December 17, 2023, Hyundai Mobis, the automotive parts subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, announced its readiness to commercialise an innovative battery cell cooling material. This breakthrough is poised to enhance both the charging efficiency and safety of electric vehicles. The material referred to as "Pulsating Heat Pipe" is made of aluminium alloy tubes filled with refrigerants. These tubes, positioned between the battery cells in the module assembly, effectively dissipate heat, particularly during fast charging. The above image reflects a comparison test of the heat dissipation performance of Hyundai Mobis' 'Pulsating Heat Pipe' for battery cell cooling and a standard aluminium cooling plate. It shows a temperature difference of nearly 20 degrees. With a groundbreaking innovation...
The comprehensive operating rate of China’s domestic aluminium wire and cable industry in November 2024 saw a month-on-month increase of 1.27 per cent and a year-on-year hike of 10.36 per cent, nearing 60 per cent. The operating rate increased without being impacted by temperature on power grid construction. Instead, resilient demand for distribution network order pickups supported the operating rate. Additionally, the effort behind completing the delivery tasks by year-end ramped up the operations. According to the Shanghai Metals Market, the operating rate precisely stood at 59.96 per cent, demonstrating a growth driven by large enterprises with an operating rate of 70.11 per cent. The medium-sized and small enterprises illustrated 56.32 per cent and 40.68 per cent operating rates, both...
Global aluminium wire rod consumption has risen steadily across the world. Aluminium's unique properties make it a key material in the electrical and electronics industries, enabling a wide range of applications. The global wire and cable market, valued at US$ 191.6 billion in 2022, is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3 per cent between 2023 and 2032. The global aluminium wire rod market was valued at $22.6 billion in 2023 based on consumption and regional trade flow. It is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 3.7 per cent from 2024 to 2030. The increasing demand from the power, automotive, and aerospace sectors is a substantial factor driving this market. Aluminium wire rod usage is driven mainly by the growth of worldwide electrical transmission and...
Romet's integrated facility for aluminium frame production, painting, and assembly gives it a unique edge in Europe's bicycle manufacturing sector. Five years after launch, the factory operates at full capacity, offering logistical advantages over competitors importing frames from Asia. Despite this, Romet still paints large quantities of Asian-sourced frames due to limited in-house capacity. Image Source: https://romet.uk/ "Our goal is to focus on e-bike frame production and accelerate innovations," says Wiesław Grzyb, the brand's President. Proximity between frame production and assembly lines remains a key competitive advantage. The company sources high-quality aluminium 6061 from two Polish suppliers. Processes like laser cutting, hydroforming, and robotic welding are completed...
Ball Corporation, a company that has made noteworthy strides toward its 2030 sustainability goals with progress in recycling, climate action, and diversity while tackling challenges in resource efficiency and supply chain accountability, has had a positive year (2024) both in terms of financial and operational success. Image Source: https://www.ball.com/ Ball Corporation, a global leader in aluminium packaging, has a strong focus on circular economy, renewable energy, and social impact. The company has outlined measurable progress while maintaining ambitious targets for 2030. Financial results in 2024 (so far) The company reports a strong performance in 2024 with continued growth in the aluminium packaging sector. Ball Corporation (NYSE: BALL) has reported solid financial results for the...
Vedanta Aluminium has once again proved its leadership in sustainable industrial practices by saving 1.3 million Giga Joules (GJ) of energy, aligned with India’s energy conservation goals. This achievement was possible due to a continuous effort towards enhancing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Image Source: Vedanta Aluminium As per the report, Vedanta has achieved a 10.16 per cent reduction in GHG intensity compared to the 2021 baseline, demonstrating a perpetual dedication towards building a cleaner and more sustainable operational framework. The company has also secured 1.3 GW of renewable energy capacity, stepping closer to sustainable practices. The innovative measures taken by Vedanta for sustainability achievements are as follows: · Vedanta has...
The Australian-based company specialising in producing ultra-high purity alumina (HPA), Alpha HPA, has achieved a significant milestone by securing $400 million in debt financing to advance its High Purity Alumina (HPA) First Project in Gladstone, Queensland. The funding, supported by Export Finance Australia (EFA) and the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF), paves the way for Alpha HPA to develop Australia’s first large-scale high-purity alumina processing facility. The financing package includes a $320 million construction loan and an $80 million contingency fund for potential cost overruns. The company announced that both facilities have competitive interest rates and an 11-year repayment term starting from the financial close. Alpha HPA's Managing Director, Rimas...
Aluminium Stewardship Initiative has reportedly certified Sanyuan Aluminium Co., Ltd. against the Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard V2 (2022) Certification for its Zouping Xinsanyuan Aluminium Co., Ltd. and Shandong Longkou Sanyuan Aluminium Co., Ltd. facilities. Both facilities have certification for processing aluminium coils and sheets in Shandong Province, China. The facilities collectively produce and supply aluminium tab stock and end stock for the fabrication of ends of beverage and food metal cans, with a combined annual production capacity of about 100,000 tonnes. The facilities have acquired the ASI CoC Standard Certification after conforming to appropriate policies and due diligence processes to identify and address critical issues, such as corruption, human rights abuses,...
On December 17, 2024, Chevron, one of the world's leading integrated energy companies with a presence in Australia for over 70 years, Chevron Australia announced that it will supply aluminium producer Alcoa with 130 petajoules of natural gas over a 10-year period starting in 2028. Chevron Corporation is an American multinational energy corporation specialising predominantly in oil and gas. According to Chevron Australia's statement, the gas will be sourced from its Gorgon and Wheatstone facilities, which have a combined capacity of 530 terajoules per day, and the North West Shelf Venture, all located in Western Australia. As reported by Reuters, Alcoa confirmed that the gas will power its alumina refineries in Western Australia. In 2020, Alcoa secured gas supply agreements with Chevron,...
According to a recent report, ten European Union member states have jointly appealed for stricter sanctions on Russian metals, including aluminium. The demand is led by Poland, who will assume the rotating presidency of the European Union Council from January 2025. Poland joins the Baltic States, Denmark, Ireland, Romania, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Finland. This initiative aims to curtail Russia’s revenue from metal exports since it is a critical source of income after fossil fuels. Poland is playing a prominent role in it as it is expected to prioritise support for Ukraine. Currently, the European Union has sanctions on some specific Russian aluminium products like wire, pipes, and foil, which account for less than 15 per cent of the bloc’s total metal imports. Like the United...
