Tesla's ambitions for its Optimus humanoid robot extend well beyond factory automation, with the company envisioning a future in which robots could support vehicle servicing, logistics and even last-mile delivery. However, turning that vision into a commercially viable product will require more than advances in artificial intelligence and robotics. It will also depend on access to aluminium, critical minerals and the downstream manufacturing capabilities needed to produce increasingly sophisticated hardware at scale. Tesla has already taken an important step towards that ambition. On October 21, 2026, the company announced that Optimus production had begun on its high-volume manufacturing line in Fremont, California. Tesla described the units coming off the line as its first...
Trimet has reduced direct carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions at its aluminium recycling plant in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, by 25 per cent, saving approximately 4,000 tonnes annually through a transition to hydrogen-rich coke oven gas. The new energy supply system, commissioned on October 29, 2026, will power the site's melting furnaces using industrial gas containing more than 60 per cent hydrogen. The coke oven gas is sourced from ArcelorMittal's coking plant in neighbouring Bottrop and supplied to Trimet through Uniper Energy Sales via the existing gas pipeline network. A new supply line, approximately 700 metres long, was installed to connect the recycling facility at Gelsenkirchen's inland port to the network. According to Trimet, coke oven gas generates lower CO2 emissions during...
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On May 11th, a significant development took place as the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) granted approval for Ningbo Xusheng Group Co., Ltd.'s registration of convertible bonds with an undisclosed issuer. This endorsement by the CSRC paves the way for Xusheng Group's convertible bonds to be listed on the main board of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, a testament to the company's financial stability and potential for growth. It is reported that the Xusheng Group plans to issue convertible bonds totalling at most RMB 2,800,000,000. After deducting issuance expenses, the funds will be allocated to various projects, including: new energy vehicle powertrain projects, key parts projects for lightweight vehicles, green manufacturing projects for lightweight structural parts of...
On May 10, Chinalco's high-end dual carbon and digital intelligence action plan conference was held in Fuzhou. During the meeting, Chinalco unveiled its high-end "Digital Intelligence Action Plan (2024-2026)" and "Dual Carbon Action Plan." Chinalco Ruimin, recognised for its exemplary transformation in dual carbon and digital intelligence, shared successful practice cases. Additionally, Aluminum Intelligence and Colour Technology provided professional support reports. Li Xiehua, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and General Manager of Chinalco attended the meeting and delivered a speech. Tang Yong, Deputy General Manager of Chinalco, and Qu Ming, Assistant General Manager, were also present. About the conference After the conference, participants toured several key facilities,...
The aluminium industry has actively sought strategies and technologies to establish a closed-loop supply chain model. Aluminium smelters worldwide are committing significant efforts to minimise and recycle aluminium dross to fulfil their sustainability and environmental objectives. In the past few years, technological advancements in aluminium dross processing have greatly assisted companies in attaining these objectives. As a result, the proportion of dross sent to the landfill has recently reduced significantly. When aluminium reaches its molten state, oxidation occurs on the surface, forming a dross resembling a “skin-like” layer. This dross is then skimmed off the top surface, leaving behind the pure metal. Dross is predominantly generated in primary aluminium smelters, recycling...
En+ Group, a prominent player in the production of low-carbon aluminium and renewable energy, has announced a significant leadership change. Mikhail Khardikov, the Chief Executive Officer, has resigned, and Vladimir Kolmogorov, a seasoned executive with vast experience in the energy sector, will succeed him. This transition marks a strategic move aimed at bolstering the company's growth and reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Mikhail Khardikov has decided to step down from his position as CEO of En+. Under his leadership, the company has maintained stable operations and laid a solid foundation for future growth. His contributions have been instrumental in navigating the company through various challenges and setting the stage for continued success. The Chairman of the Board of...
The 3003 aluminium plate, a standout rust-proof material, finds widespread use in diverse applications. Its strength, though not exceptional (marginally higher than industrial pure aluminium), is not amenable to enhancement through heat treatment. Instead, its mechanical properties are elevated through the use of cold working techniques. The 3003 alloy exhibits remarkable plasticity when annealed, good plasticity when semi-cold worked, and low plasticity when cold worked, making it a versatile material. Additionally, it offers excellent corrosion resistance and weldability. It can be used in multiple products like blinds, lamp caps, ultra-wide curtain walls, and power battery casings. Also, aluminium as a metal is increasingly recyclable and is becoming an essential component of the...
In a move to bolster their ongoing partnership, Swiss-based trading house Glencore and Russian aluminium giant Rusal have agreed to extend their long-term supply contract into next year. According to a source with direct knowledge of the matter, the volume traded under the agreement thus far has reached only a fraction of its maximum potential. The contract between Glencore and Rusal, the world's largest aluminium producer outside of China, has been renewed. This renewal ensures continued collaboration between the two industry giants and underscores the mutual benefits they derive from this partnership. Initially set to expire this year, the contract has been renewed, reflecting both parties' confidence in the future of the aluminium industry. However, this morning, when we reached an...
The previous trading day, LME aluminium opened at US$2,710.5 per tonne, reached a high of US$2,749 per tonne and a low of US$2,621 per tonne, and closed at US$2,640.5 per tonne, down US$75 per tonne, a decrease of 2.76 per cent. On Wednesday, May 22, both LME aluminium cash bid price and LME aluminium official settlement price dropped by US$19 per tonne or 0.71 per cent and US$20 per tonne or 0.75 per cent to settle at US$2,624 per tonne and US$2,625 per tonne. 3-month bid price and 3-month offer price contracted by US$31 per tonne or 1.14 per cent to stand at US$2,672.50 per tonne and US$2,673 per tonne. December 25 bid price and December 25 offer price also dwindled by US$43 per tonne or 1.52 per cent to clock at US$2,772 per tonne and US$2,777 per tonne. LME aluminium opening stock...
SAG México, a prominent Tier 1 supplier of lightweight components for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in North America, operates two advanced production facilities in Tlalnepantla and Monterrey, employing over 470 skilled professionals. In response to rising demand, SAG México has secured major additional orders worth over 30 million euros in recent months. Renowned for producing high-quality aluminium parts, including fuel tanks, compressed air tanks, and air reservoirs for heavy and medium-duty trucks and internal combustion engine (ICE) SUVs, SAG México recently achieved sales of approximately 80 million euros. With the automotive industry increasingly turning to aluminium for its benefits, SAG México is poised for significant growth. The company plans to expand further with a...
According to a recent report, John Slaven, CEO of Vedanta Limited, said that its aluminium business would no longer indulge in adding coal-fired capacity for energy-intensive metal production as a move towards renewable energy. The aim is to increase the share of renewable energy to 30 per cent by 2030 from 5 per cent at present, asserted John Slaven in an interview with Reuters, adding that the company currently has 4.8 gigawatts of coal-based power generation capacity. Slaven also said that Vedanta secured supplies of 1.3 GW of renewable energy – a mix of solar and wind power – from India's Serentica Renewables. Vedanta's primary focus is to shift its power usage to renewable energy for aluminium production to reduce carbon footprint across its operations. "We don't want to add...
Pakistan Aluminum Beverage Cans Limited (PABC) has reported that the "ongoing security issues" in Chaman are likely to negatively impact its export revenue to Afghanistan, as trade with the neighbouring country has already been severely restricted. Additionally, the company has observed a nearly 25 per cent Y-o-Y decline in local order bookings. "We anticipate a negative impact on our order bookings during the peak season," the company stated. Protests have been ongoing in Chaman since October 2023, involving workers and supporters from various political parties and local traders' organizations. These demonstrations have significantly disrupted bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, including transit trade. In October of last year, the government's apex committee decided to...
Signify has unveiled a range of energy-efficient fans tailored for the summer season. These innovative fans combine advanced technology with top-tier performance, offering consumers an optimal cooling experience. The new Ecolink lineup features five models: AiroGeometry, AiroJewel, AiroZephyr, AiroSerenade, and AiroSleek, each designed for superior air delivery, high efficiency, and significant energy savings. The newly launched fans by Signify incorporate advanced technology ensuring high energy efficiency and low power consumption. Equipped with aluminium blades and heavy-duty copper winding motors , these fans promise durability and top-notch performance. Operating at 370 RPM, they deliver superior air circulation, making them an excellent choice for any space. AiroGeometry : Inspired...
In February 2024, there was a notable shift in the export dynamics of US aluminium scrap, according to the United States Geological Survey. Previously, India held the position of second-highest export destination until January 2024. But subsequently, Thailand emerged as the second top importer of US aluminium scrap, following Malaysia. As per the data revealed by the US Geological Survey, Thailand's aluminium scrap imports from the US exceeded India's by 4,800 tonnes in February 2024. Thailand's aluminium scrap import volume in the said month was 25,700 tonnes, while that of India was 20,900 tonnes. Thailand's imports grew by 6,400 tonnes or 33.16 per cent month-on-month from 19,300 tonnes and increased year-on-year by 7,600 tonnes or 41.99 per cent from 18,100 tonnes. In contrast,...
Qatalum, a joint venture aluminium smelter between Qatar Petroleum and Norsk Hydro, has been successfully recertified to the latest version (v3) of the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Performance Standard. ASI, a globally recognized non-profit organization, plays a pivotal role in setting standards and providing certification for the aluminium industry. The Performance Standard, which Qatalum has held since April 2022, is a testament to the company's adherence to internationally recognized ESG principles and criteria that address various sustainability issues. Qatalum CEO stated, “Recertification to the latest ASI standard demonstrates Qatalum’s commitment not only to sustainability but also to transparency and good governance. This achievement is a product of our culture of...
Netherlands-based DeSpray Environmental, a Dutch innovator in aerosol recycling technology, has announced a significant long-term contract with Australian-based ARRG Waste to supply DeSpray aerosol recycling systems. The machines are known for recycling aerosol cans composed of aluminium and other metals. This milestone agreement, unveiled at the IFAT exhibition in Munich, Germany, marks the first time DeSpray's 100 per cent aerosol recycling machines will be shipped to Australia and the Asia Pacific region. Under this multi-million-dollar contract, DeSpray will become a long-term partner, providing 100 per cent aerosol recycling machines to multiple ARRG Waste locations. Headquartered in Chinchilla, Queensland, ARRG Waste offers various waste management and recycling services. It is...
Volvo Buses has introduced the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range, a pioneering electric low-floor, two-door premium-class city bus, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's public transportation sector. This collaboration with Gemilang International Ltd aims to elevate industry standards and accelerate the nation's transition to sustainable urban mobility. The Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range is a testament to the benefits of aluminium in modern bus manufacturing. Featuring an aluminium body superstructure , this innovative bus combines superior reliability, safety, and environmental performance. Aluminium’s lightweight yet durable properties make it an ideal choice for enhancing the efficiency and longevity of electric buses. Volvo Buses Country Manager Marcus Mak pointed out that electromobility is a...
The Shanghai Metals Market survey reported on Monday, May 20, that China's domestic social inventories of aluminium ingot across major consumption areas came in at 759,000 tonnes, experiencing an increase of 12,000 tonnes over the weekend. SMM also calculated and found that the stock level on May 20 was 90,000 tonnes higher year-on-year. The latest surge in inventories is linked with rising aluminium prices, which are discouraging domestic downstream manufacturers from purchasing new stock. Analysis for upward trajectory Other factors that contributed to the rise in inventory included an influx of primary aluminium from Guangxi and Yunnan. South China saw a month-on-month increase of over 1,000 tonnes in arrivals over the weekend. Inching closer to the domestic off-season was also a valid...
Shandong Xintong Aluminum Technology Co., Ltd. stands at the forefront of the aluminium industry and is distinguished by its specialisation in producing top-tier aluminium products. In a significant move towards furthering its commitment to excellence, Shandong Xintong Aluminum recently joined the AL Biz platform, the world's first global marketplace that connects millions of buyers and sellers across the entire aluminium value chain. The company has been successfully registered under the world's first B2B platform with 2100+ certified aluminium product sellers. This onboarding is poised to bring about synergies that will enhance the company's capabilities and open up new avenues for growth and development. Shandong Xintong Aluminum joining the AL Biz platform reflects its...
WinTech of Missouri, a producer of construction industry materials, has acquired Pocahontas Aluminum Company, a window and door manufacturer located in Pocahontas. Established in 1963, Pocahontas Aluminum Company produces materials for various industries, including modular homes, food trucks, and deer blinds. Although the terms of the deal were not disclosed, WinTech President Jack Williams expressed his enthusiasm for the merger of the two companies. “We are thrilled to welcome Pocahontas Aluminum Company into the WinTech family. This acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to combine the strengths and expertise of two great companies, driving greater value for our customers and employee-owners. Together, we will leverage our collective resources and capabilities to improve...
