AlCircle News Edited By "Rupankar Majumder"
A professional with a technical background, specialising in producing insightful content centred around metals, particularly aluminium, passionately engaged in the intricacies of the recycling sector.
Innovative Korean research enhances aluminium frames for bifacial solar modules
Korean scientists have developed a groundbreaking deep-learning alternative model to optimise aluminium frames in glass-glass bifacial photovoltaic panels (PVs). Addressing the escalating challenges posed by the growing size and weight of PV modules, the researchers highlighted a critical issue: the heightened susceptibility of aluminium frames to deflection. Deflection refers to the lateral deformation experienced by a structural element under load, a concern amplified by the increasing dimensions of modern PV panels. Aluminium frames play a crucial role in providing structural support to solar panels. They ensure they maintain their shape and integrity by preventing bending, warping, or sagging caused by their weight or external factors. The innovative deep-learning hybrid model...
Indonesia's critical minerals: A wealth beyond measure, but sustainability awaits
Indonesia, with its rich deposits of critical minerals, stands poised at the forefront of the global supply chain, particularly in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. The 2024 US Geological Survey report underscores Indonesia's dominance, placing it first worldwide in nickel reserves, which are crucial for EV batteries. Additionally, Indonesia ranks among the world's top tin producers, an essential component in smartphone manufacturing. Beyond nickel and tin, Indonesia's mineral wealth includes significant deposits of cobalt, bauxite, and copper. Indonesia has trade restrictions on bauxite and nickel. In 2020, the nation prohibited the export of nickel, and in 2023, it banned the export of bauxite . Indonesia has previously planned to impose a ban on exports of copper concentrate...
Tomago Aluminium names Jérôme Dozol as Chief Executive Officer
Australasia’s largest aluminium smelter, Tomago Aluminium, has appointed Jérôme Dozol as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and General Manager to lead the company into its fifth decade, aiming to ensure a long and prosperous future. Dozol's career spans over 18 years with Rio Tinto, one of the stakeholders of Tomago Aluminium. In his most recent role, he served as General Manager of a Copper Smelter and Refinery in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he demonstrated his expertise in managing complex operations and enhancing efficiency. Dozol expressed his enthusiasm for joining Tomago Aluminium, a company renowned globally as one of the leading aluminium smelters. Jérôme Dozol said, "I am passionate about extending the life of industrial assets and tackling climate change. Tomago Aluminium has a...
China Hongqiao welcomes SMB-Winning Consortium staff for comprehensive study tour
On June 15th, over 30 employees from the SMB-Winning Consortium in Guinea embarked on an extensive study and exchange program at China Hongqiao Group. The visit began with a heartfelt welcome from Guo Cuihua, the Director of Human Resources at China Hongqiao. She warmly conveyed the significance of the delegation's presence, likening it to a homecoming. Guo emphasised the robust partnership between the two organisations and expressed optimism about the potential for increased collaboration and mutual development. SMB Winning Consortium is an alliance of four global partners led by Singapore’s Winning International Group. It comprises the Hongqiao Group under China’s Shandong Weiqiao Pioneering Group, Guinea’s UMS, and China’s Yantai Port Group. The HR Director encouraged the Guinean...
Key highlights from the global aluminium industry, June 2024
In June 2024, the global aluminium industry saw slight price positivity on both the LME and SHFE platforms at the beginning of the month. However, these gains were short-lived, and prices soon declined again. This reminds us again that AL Circle's industry-focused report, "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024" , revealed the Metals and Minerals Price Index of the World Bank witnessed a marginal decrease of 0.13 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2023, marking a continuation of the consistent declines observed since early 2022. This downturn is attributed to a deceleration in economic activity in significant global economies, leading to a subdued demand environment alongside ongoing recoveries in the supply of certain base metals. Projections indicate a 5 per cent decline in metal prices...
CSI Mining Services begins transporting bauxite for Rio Tinto's Weipa operations
CSI Mining Services, a Mineral Resources Limited (MinRes) subsidiary, has initiated the transport of bauxite ore for Rio Tinto's Weipa operations in northern Queensland. Recognised as a leader in pit-to-ship solutions, CSI Mining Services specialises in innovative crushing, screening, and processing operations for both MinRes and Tier 1 mining clients. In April, CSI secured a contract to provide haulage services for a Tier 1 mining company, with operations commencing the following month. Now, the company has begun transporting bauxite from Rio Tinto's Weipa operations, which include three bauxite mines , processing facilities, shiploaders, an export wharf, two ports, power stations, a rail network, and ferry terminals. CSI operates eight Kenworth C509 quad road trains to transport...
Sustainable footprints: Recycled aluminium shapes Norway's latest bridge
A groundbreaking network arch bridge featuring a fully aluminium support structure is currently under construction in Trondheim, Norway. The project stands out due to its extensive use of recycled materials, with one-third of the aluminium sourced from the decommissioned Gyda Oil Platform. The bridge will also be supported by stainless steel tension rods. The footbridge will span 55 meters in length and 9 meters in width and weigh 60 tonnes upon completion. This ambitious project is a collaborative effort between the Norwegian Public Roads Administration and Leirvik, a leading engineering, procurement, and construction supplier specialising in aluminium projects . Construction of the bridge commenced in May, with the installation slated for June 2025. Once completed, the footbridge will...
Insider transaction: Century Aluminium CEO sells significant stock
In a notable financial move, Century Aluminium Co. President and CEO Jesse E. Gary has sold a substantial portion of his company stock, as reported by Investing.com. On June 26, Gary offloaded 60,000 shares at an average price of $16.21 per share, resulting in a total transaction value of $972,600. The sale prices varied, ranging from $15.81 to $16.44, indicating diverse market conditions on the day of the sale. Despite this significant divestiture, Gary continues to hold a sizable stake in Century Aluminium, retaining 62,447 shares indirectly through a trust. Additionally, his total holdings are bolstered by unvested stock units granted under the company's Long-Term Incentive Plans, which remain unaffected by this recent transaction. Century Aluminium's CEO's recent sale has garnered...
Trulite Glass & Aluminium Solutions LLC acquires American Insulated Glass, expands market reach
Trulite Glass & Aluminium Solutions LLC has acquired and merged with American Insulated Glass (AIG) to create a new era in the architectural glass and aluminium fabrication industry. This acquisition solidifies Trulite's position as one of North America's leading players in the market. Financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed. The merger with AIG is set to broaden Trulite's footprint, enhancing its capacity to service the growing Midwest and East Coast markets. By integrating AIG's product offerings, Trulite can now provide a wider array of residential applications, strengthening its market position and expanding its customer base. This expansion means more options and better service for our valued customers. Trulite spokesperson said, "We are excited about this acquisition's...
John West tuna packaging shifts to recyclable aluminium strip solution
John West, a prominent name in the seafood industry, has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance packaging sustainability. Partnering with Schubert Packaging Systems, CCL Label, and Touch Design, John West has implemented an aluminium strip solution known as Ecotwist in its ambient tuna packaging. This innovative approach facilitates easier recycling and annually eliminates approximately 65 tonnes of plastic shrink wrap. The Ecotwist solution features a Smartstrip that consumers can effortlessly twist and pull to open the packaging. This user-friendly design, independently verified as fully recyclable, allows consumers to recycle their tuna cans, complete with the aluminium strip, through kerbside recycling programs across the UK. By adopting Ecotwist, John West not only...
Andrew Hinkle named VP of Marketing and Brand Management at Southern Aluminium
Magnolia based Southern Aluminium, the industry's leading provider of high-end linen-less meeting and event furniture, has announced the promotion of Andrew Hinkle to Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management. Hinkle began his journey with the company as a graphic designer in 2010 and has steadily risen through the ranks, showcasing exceptional dedication and strategic insight. Having assumed the role of Director of Marketing in 2020, Hinkle has been pivotal in shaping Southern Aluminium's brand narrative, both internally and externally. His visionary approach underscores the company's commitment to enhancing its market presence while fostering a cohesive culture within the organization and the community. Andrew Hinkle's promotion to Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management...
LME explores Hong Kong warehouse licensing to enhance China market services
The London Metal Exchange is considering licensing a warehouse in Hong Kong to enhance its services for clients in China, the world's largest metals market. At the metal exchange's annual Asia seminar in Hong Kong on June 27, Bonnie Chan, the Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. (which owns the LME), announced the commissioning of a comprehensive third-party study. This study will thoroughly assess the feasibility of establishing a warehouse in Hong Kong, ensuring that all potential factors are considered in the decision-making process. Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing Ltd. (HKEX) has enhanced the holding company, providing LME and LME Clear ownership, underscoring the Group's strategic commitment to further developing its commodities business. Since Hong Kong...
Molten aluminium spill closes I-165 northbound at Fairview Drive overpass in Daviess County
A major incident has closed both northbound and southbound lanes of I-165 at the Fairview Drive overpass. According to the Daviess County Emergency Management Agency, a semi-truck lost its load of molten aluminium, spilling the hazardous material across the northbound lanes. Daviess County is a county in Kentucky, USA. The emergency has necessitated an immediate closure of the entire stretch, with authorities predicting the disruption to last 6 to 10 hours. To minimise the impact on motorists, a detour has been established via U.S. 231. Active measures to clear the area are already in motion. Once the aluminium crucibles (containers) are removed, road crews will commence milling the right lane and laying down a temporary base to ensure smooth traffic flow. This work is expected to be...
Pollution incident reported in Rio Cobre waters, St. Catherine
The Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) received a disturbing video early on June 24, 2024, showing the greenish-coloured, polluted waters of the Rio Cobre at Zephyrton, St. Catherine. The Rio Cobre is a river in Jamaica. Its source is Rose Hall Mountain in the northeast of Saint Catherine Parish, and the headwaters are a writhing of unnamed, seasonally dry tributaries. The footage, captured by a member of the Friends of Rio Cobre, was promptly forwarded to the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), Senator Matthew Samuda, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth & Job Creation, and members of the media. In swift response, NEPA and NFA dispatched a team to the site to collect water quality samples and assess the situation....
LB Aluminium posts impressive 62.67% rise in 4QFY2024 profits
LB Aluminium Bhd reported a significant increase in its net profit for the fourth quarter ended April 30, 2024 (4QFY2024). The company's net profit rose by 62.67 per cent, reaching RM9.43 million, compared to RM5.8 million in the same period last year. Higher contributions from both the aluminium and property segments drove the impressive performance. Revenue for the quarter saw a robust 48 per cent growth, climbing to RM273.57 million from RM184.83 million in 4QFY2023. This strong financial result underscores LB Aluminium Bhd's strategic execution and market resilience. It also sets a positive outlook for the ongoing fiscal year, instilling hope and confidence in the company's future. Malaysia-headquartered LB Aluminium, grown to be one of the largest aluminium extrusion manufacturers in...
Ghana Bauxite Company receives Parliament’s approval for Awaso mining lease
In a collective decision, the Parliament of Ghana has approved a mining lease for the Ghana Bauxite Company, granting it the rights to mine bauxite in Awaso, located within the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region. This decision came after a comprehensive report was presented by a joint Parliamentary Committee of Mines and Energy and Lands and Forestry on June 26, 2024. The committee's report highlighted the mining lease's strategic importance, emphasising its potential to bolster the nation's economy and create regional job opportunities. The ratification marks a significant step forward in Ghana's efforts to harness its natural resources for sustainable development. The approval of the mining lease has sparked anticipation and optimism among stakeholders in...
Metal Packaging Europe announces appointment of new vice presidents
Metal Packaging Europe (MPE) has announced the appointment of two new vice presidents following a successful AGM and Conference in Amsterdam. Members, suppliers, customers, and other value chain partners attended the event. Metal Packaging Europe gives Europe’s rigid metal packaging industry a unified voice by bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and national associations. Dr Mandy Glew of Ball Corporation and JehanZeb Noor of Trivium Packaging have joined as Vice Presidents, bringing extensive expertise to the MPE leadership team. Their addition marks a significant step forward in the organisation's efforts to champion the benefits of rigid metal packaging. The MPE Conference and AGM gathered experts and industry leaders from Europe and beyond to explore the future of rigid metal...
ARZYZ Metals to cut Mexico's FRP imports with new domestic production initiative
In the Mexican nonferrous metals sector, ARZYZ Metals, a leader in producing aluminium alloys and commercialising primary metals, has launched a new initiative to enhance its services for Mexico's domestic flat-rolled products market by vertically integrating and optimising. This initiative, the first phase of a three-stage plan, has the potential to significantly impact the industry. ARZYZ will produce 80,000 tonnes annually in this initial phase, supplying materials for automotive inner body parts , appliances, HVAC systems, cabinets, and building and construction applications. An official spokesperson said, “We expect to produce the first coil by mid-2026. We aim to lead the Mexican aluminium market through vertical integration into FRP and expand our services to the automotive and...
