Alba sets a new milestone with Line 6 nameplate capacity expansion to 560,000 tonnes per annum

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest aluminium smelter ex-China, has reportedly achieved a new milestone in Reduction Line 6 as its production capacity increased from 540,000 tonnes per annum to 560,000 tonnes per annum, with current consumption grown from 460 kA to 478 kA.

This continued growth in Line 6 capacity has further contributed to Alba’s nameplate capacity, bringing it above 1.6 million tonnes per annum. This new milestone will help Alba increase its primary aluminium supply to the downstream sector, which will ultimately boost Bahrain’s economy.

Speaking on this achievement, Alba’s Chairman of the Board, Shaikh Daij bin Salman bin Daij Al Khalifa, said: “We have gone bigger with expanding Line 6 nameplate production capacity for the better. This new milestone is important for Alba, now and in the future as we continue to strive to improve our operational productivity and efficiency while keeping Alba on track to rank as the largest smelter in the world ex-China.”

In March 2023, Alba was acknowledged as the world’s largest aluminium smelter ex-China by Wood Mackenzie, thanks to the successful operation at Reduction Line 6.

Alba’s chairman added, "I would like to applaud our teams for creeping-up safely our Line 6 assets in the last couple of months to expand its throughput all the while optimizing our fixed cost structure. Witnessing Line 6 success and its contributions to Alba’s operational and financial performance since 2019, we are now keen more than ever to move forward with Line 7 smelter.”

In 2022, Alba’s Chairman and CEO discussed the proposed Line 7 project with Bechtel’s President of Mining & Metals Global Business Unit Ailie MacAdam, Bechtel’s President of Europe, Africa, and Middle East Region Justin Siberell, and Bechtel’ Regional Manager Mark Ashwin.