As Angul smelter expands to 0.96m tpa, NALCO turns to aluminium fluoride supply security

National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) has invited expressions of interest (EOI) from manufacturers, investors and potential joint-venture partners to establish aluminium fluoride (AlF3) production facilities as it prepares to expand its Angul smelter capacity from 0.46 million tonnes per annum to approximately 0.96 million tonnes per annum.

The proposed facilities would produce high bulk density and low bulk density grades of aluminium fluoride, a critical input in the Hall-Héroult process used for aluminium smelting. 

Through the initiative, NALCO aims to secure a reliable, cost-competitive supply of the material and reduce its dependence on imports.

According to the EOI document, NALCO/BD/ST/2026/5805, dated September 21, 2026, interested parties must submit their responses by October 30, 2026.

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NALCO explores partnerships to secure aluminium fluoride supply

NALCO is considering several collaboration models for establishing the proposed production facilities. These include a joint venture with the company, preferably located near its Angul Smelter Complex, as well as long-term strategic partnerships linked to assured offtake.

The company is also open to other collaborative arrangements that can ensure a secure supply of aluminium fluoride for its operations.

The initiative comes as NALCO plans to more than double its Angul smelter capacity. Securing access to aluminium fluoride is part of its effort to strengthen backward integration and manage the supply of a key material required for aluminium production.

Eligibility criteria for prospective partners

NALCO is seeking participants with established aluminium fluoride manufacturing experience, access to essential feedstock, relevant supply credentials with aluminium smelters and sufficient financial capacity to support the proposed facilities.

The EOI process will be used to shortlist interested parties. Following this stage, NALCO may proceed with a detailed request for proposal (RFP) or discussions on potential joint ventures.

The company has not yet announced a selected partner or confirmed the establishment of a production facility. The EOI represents an initial step towards identifying suitable collaborators for the proposed project.

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