Spanish racing driverFernando Alonso has added a one-off Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse to his growing collection of rare cars. Known as chassis 8.100, the car is distinguished by bespoke aluminium bodywork that required more than 20 tonnes of aluminium to produce, along with dedicated CAD programmes developed by Bugatti. Its history is equally distinctive, being produced after an original customer pushed Bugatti to create something it had initially considered too expensive. For Alonso, the automobile fits closely with an approach to luxury he outlined in 2024 about choosing manufacturers that treat individual customers differently rather than simply producing cars in larger numbers. To know the aluminium casting demand forecast in the transportation sector, explore our report "Global...
China Rare Earth Group is in talks to acquire a controlling stake in Shenghe Resources, a move that could bring the Chinese rare earth producer under tighter state control while giving Beijing influence over Shenghe’s overseas holdings, including a stake in US rare earths company MP Materials. Two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters that discussions between the companies have been underway since earlier this year. One source said China Rare Earth Group is seeking a controlling stake, although neither source knew when the acquisition could be announced or completed. If the deal goes through, China Rare Earth Group would take control of Shenghe’s interests in foreign companies, including its 3 per cent stake in MP Materials. The US rare earths company counts the US Department of...
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China's aluminium plate, sheet and strip exports trended up in October 2024, both monthly and annually. According to China customs data, the export volume in the said month stood at 300,300 tonnes, reflecting a Y-o-Y hike of 34 per cent and a M-o-M rise of 4 per cent. Image Source: Mingtai Aluminium Of the total exports, 177,600 tonnes were destined for China's top ten export destinations, accounting for about 59.16 per cent of the total export volume. In descending orders, the top ten destinations included Mexico, Vietnam, Canada, South Korea, Thailand, the United States, Australia, Indonesia, Brazil, and Malaysia. Mexico, the highest importer of China's aluminium plate, sheet and strip, secured 40,690 tonnes of product in October 2024 for US$3,308 per tonne. Vietnam, the second-highest...
Saint-Gobain Ceramics & Plastics, Inc. has officially filed a petition seeking to impose antidumping and countervailing duties on sol-gel alumina-based ceramic abrasive grains imported from China. The move is aimed at addressing what the company claims are unfair trade practices that have impacted the U.S. abrasive grain market. According to the petition, the investigation will focus on specific ceramic abrasive grains made from at least 94 per cent aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) and potentially mixed with compounds such as titanium dioxide, silicon dioxide, and zirconium dioxide, among others. These grains, known for their advanced crystalline microstructure and superior abrasive capabilities, differ significantly from conventional fused grains. The grains in question come in various shapes,...
Prices of aluminium ADC12 alloyed ingots remained stable w-o-w across both northern and southern regions in India, largely due to ongoing sluggish demand in the automotive sector and a weakened export market. BigMint's weekly assessments for ADC12 (non-OEM) grade stood at INR 201,000/tonne (t) in Delhi and INR 203,000/t in Chennai, stable w-o-w. Last week, aluminium prices surged after China announced the elimination of export tax rebates on aluminium and copper semi-finished products, effective 1 December 2024. The rebate will decrease from 13 per cent to nil. This announcement drove LME aluminium prices to a six-month high above $2,700/t. At the time of reporting, three-month aluminium futures on the LME stood at $2,610/t, down marginally by 1% compared to the previous week's levels of...
Cliantech Solutions, a leading supplier of solar module manufacturing equipment, has secured a multi-gigawatt order from solar PV module producer INA Solar. This partnership is set to boost production capacity and address the increasing demand for solar energy solutions. The collaboration marks a significant move towards enhancing efficiency and scalability in solar module manufacturing, supporting global renewable energy objectives. To cater to the increasing demand, INA Solar is ramping up its solar module production capacity to multi-gigawatt levels, solidifying its role as a key player in India's green energy transition. The company is also establishing new manufacturing facilities for solar cells and aluminium frames to support its growth. Last month, INA Solar secured INR 402 crore...
In a decisive statement on November 27, 2024, the Odisha state government categorically dismissed allegations that it plans to permit bauxite mining in the ecologically sensitive Gandhamardan Hills, spanning Bolangir and Baragarh districts. As published on the website of DrugControl Media Services Odisha's Gandhamardan Hill range, known as the "ayurvedic paradise," has been designated a "biodiversity heritage site." Odisha, an eastern state in India, holds a prominent position in the country's aluminium industry thanks to its vast bauxite reserves. As the largest bauxite-producing state, Odisha contributes nearly 50 per cent of India's total bauxite output. This significant resource base has been instrumental in positioning India as a leading global player in aluminium manufacturing, with...
The chip melting furnace at the Kassel foundry, operational since June 2024, marks a major advancement in the recycling process. This innovative furnace is set to lower energy consumption by approximately 3,250 MWh annually, significantly cutting operating costs and minimising environmental impact. Moreover, it will reduce CO 2 emissions by over 1,400 tonnes per year, substantially contributing to climate target achievements. Image Source: Volkswagen AG Kassel plant About the on-site melting process Recycling all aluminium chips generated at the Kassel plant back into the casting process represents a key milestone in advancing circular economy practices and sustainability. This innovative on-site melting process significantly reduces energy consumption by approximately 3,250 MWh annually...
Imported aluminium scrap prices in India remained firm, with few grades edging lower by up to 1.5 per cent w-o-w. BigMint's benchmark assessment for tense scrap originating from the UAE stood at $1,800/tonne (t), firm w-o-w, while zorba 95/5 from the UK stood at $2,110/t, stable w-o-w, both prices CFR west coast, India. Last week, aluminium prices surged following the Chinese finance ministry's announcement about eliminating export tax rebates on aluminium and copper semi-finished products. Effective 1 December 2024, the rebate will drop from 13 per cent to nil. This news drove London Metal Exchange (LME) aluminium prices to a six-month high of over $2,700/t. However, prices have since retreated to around $2,600/t as the initial rally cooled, with market participants adjusting to the...
On Thursday, November 28, the A00 aluminium ingot price declined by RMB 140 per tonne to settle at RMB 20,400 per tonne, with the spot contract price expected to be traded at a premium price of RMB 10 to RMB 50 per tonne. The average prices may range between RMB 20,380 per tonne and RMB 20,420 per tonne. Image Source: CRU As per the SMM data, the price in Wuxi has dropped by RMB 150 per tonne to halt at RMB 20,380 per tonne, followed by a fall of RMB 140 per tonne to clock at RMB 20,430 per tonne in both Hangzhou and Linyi. In Chongqing the domestic aluminium ingot price has decreased by RMB 140 per tonne to settle at RMB 20,350 per tonne. On the same day, the A00 aluminium ingot price in Gongyi has lost RMB 130 per tonne to dock at RMB 20,270 per tonne. In Foshan and Tianjin, the prices...
Aluminium Stewardship Initiative has presented Chain of Custody (CoC) Standard V2 (2022) Certification to South32 Worsley Alumina for mining and alumina refining operations at its Boddington Bauxite Mine and Worsley Alumina Refinery in Collie, Australia. The certification also acknowledges the associated port facility in Bunbury, Australia. Boddington Bauxite Mine produces 18.8 million tonnes of bauxite annually, and Worsley Alumina Refinery churns out about 4.6 million tonnes of alumina. South32 Worsley Alumina acquired the ASI CoC Standard Certification after meeting all the standards required to create a Chain of Custody for material produced and processed through the value chain into diverse downstream sectors. The CoC Standard Certification also confirms that the company adheres to...
RUSAL, one of the world’s largest aluminium producers, has achieved a historic milestone. The Russian aluminium producer has successfully conducted the first-ever preheating and start-up of an aluminium reduction cell using inert anodes. This groundbreaking aluminium electrolysis technology emits oxygen instead of greenhouse gases, representing a significant leap forward in sustainable aluminium production. RUSAL announced a significant achievement in scaling inert anode technology—marking the first-ever preheating and industrial start-up of a reduction cell fully equipped with inert anodes. Previously, concerns about potential damage to inert anodes meant that the preheating and start-up of reduction cells were conducted using traditional carbon anodes, which were then gradually replaced...
Emirates Global Aluminium, the largest industrial company in the United Arab Emirates outside oil and gas, has offered more than 100 young UAE Nationals jobs at Tawdheef x Zaheb career fair. During the three-day recruitment drive, EGA engaged with young people to discuss the company’s flagship National Training and Graduate Training programmes. First established in 1982, EGA’s National Training programmes prepare high school graduates for technical roles in the company’s industrial operations and administration. More than 5,000 UAE Nationals have graduated from these initiatives, with many building long-term careers within the organisation. So far in 2024 alone, 109 UAE Nationals, including 49 women, have started at EGA on National Training programmes. Some 36 UAE Nationals, including 19...
On Monday, November 25, US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his tariff plans on social media, including a 25 per cent duty on all imports from Mexico and Canada. According to Citibank analysts, the tariff on Mexico and Canada would affect the global commodity market, but the maximum impact would be on aluminium and steel. Canada and Mexico are the United States' two most significant trading partners as the largest suppliers of aluminium and steel. The United States heavily depends on imported aluminium, with 60 per cent coming from Canada. Mexico and Canada are also notable steel suppliers to the US, with the former contributing 15 per cent and the latter accounting for 25 per cent of the United States' total steel imports. Besides a 25 per cent tariff on Mexico and Canada, Trump...
Tianshan Aluminum Company has actively disclosed updates regarding its investor relations. Following the successful equity acquisition of local mining companies in Guinea, the company is steadily advancing its region's bauxite mining and shipment project. The project has now entered the large-scale mining phase, with products being shipped to China progressively. This development is expected to significantly support the company's alumina production needs and bolster its future raw material self-sufficiency. Tianshan Aluminum's bauxite project Meanwhile, Tianshan Aluminum's bauxite project in Indonesia is under thorough investigation, with efforts underway to fulfil the preconditions for project delivery at the earliest. Preparatory approvals for the first phase of a 1-million-ton alumina...
The Brazilian Aluminum Can Manufacturers Association (Abralatas) and the digital content platform World of Cans have established a cooperation agreement. This partnership provides the technical content created by the World of Cans with a new channel for dissemination through Abralatas, while offering its userbase access to the aluminum can industry in Brazil. World of Cans is a resource hub for the aluminum beverage can industry. It is focused on providing high-quality content focused on technical knowledge, as well as an extensive catalog of suppliers and an industry event calendar. Its goal is to connect professionals within the aluminum beverage can industry, promoting interaction, knowledge sharing and curiosities. Abralatas is the first association to join this community, with an...
Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer and a leader in sustainable development, has reinforced its position as an environmental leader by spearheading impactful biodiversity and carbon reduction initiatives in Odisha through a strategic partnership with PwC India. This collaboration builds on Vedanta Aluminium’s long-standing commitment to sustainable development by introducing innovative methods for ecological conservation and community engagement. Vedanta has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with PwC India, which encompasses a range of pioneering projects designed to restore ecological balance, mitigate climate impacts, and foster community well-being. With a focus on global best practices, innovative assessment tools, and local collaboration, these initiatives...
Hammerer Aluminium Industries (HAI), the Austria-based aluminium solutions provider, has reportedly deployed a Nitrex nitriding system at its facility in Romania. The system improves the wear and corrosion resistance, allowing for higher volume production with minimal operator involvement if integrated into automated manufacturing facilities. Thus, the installation of this cutting-edge technology modernizes HAI's extrusion plant in Romania, ensuring sustainable manufacturing practices. Image Source: Wikipedia HAI Romania has been a leading manufacturer of aluminium casting products since its establishment in 2009. The plant, located in western Romania near the Hungarian border, operates five extrusion presses - a 5-inch (127 mm), a 7-inch (178 mm), two 8-inch (203 mm), and a new 10-inch...
Evo Yachts once again captivates the superyacht industry, boldly competing with the world's leading builders. Introducing the Evo R9—a groundbreaking creation that places the owner's vision at the heart of its design. Boasting innovative features and building on the signature strengths that have earned the brand global acclaim, this 30-metre aluminium masterpiece redefines luxury. Image Source - Sculati & Partners About the Evo R9 The Evo R9 sets a new benchmark in the superyacht segment with unparalleled customisation options and exhilarating performance. This highly bespoke vessel pushes boundaries and ushers in a new era for a brand renowned for its relentless evolution. The Evo R9 marks a bold new chapter for Evo Yachts, reaffirming the yard's commitment to progress through innovation...
The European aluminium foil industry demonstrated strong performance in the domestic market this year, with increased deliveries, according to the European Aluminium Foil Association (EAFA). In the third quarter of 2024, which ended September 30, Europe's domestic foil deliveries rose 15 per cent year-on-year, contributing to an overall year-to-date gain and indicating a recovery in demand and applications, particularly in the food and packaging industries due to evolving consumer demands and technological breakthroughs. Guido Aufdemkamp, Executive Director of EAFA, said: "While demand for packaging applications and household foil remained strong, demand for technical applications is still weak due to sluggish activity in the automotive and construction sectors. The current upward trend...
