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.
Greek metal industry in dismay as EU rejects 'Green Pool' scheme
The European Commission's decision to turn down the Greek government's proposal to consolidate the electricity demands of major industrial consumers, such as those in the aluminium and chemical sectors, to reduce their operational expenses has disappointed the metal industry. In July 2022, the Greek government introduced the Green Pool scheme in response to the skyrocketing electricity costs following the Ukraine-Russia geopolitical crisis. This initiative aimed to reduce electricity expenses and primarily catered to significant industrial electricity consumers, such as those in the aluminium, steel, glass, and cement industries. The program encouraged these industrial players to collaborate and engage in corporate power purchasing agreements (PPAs) for renewable energy. A public entity...
Landmark deal brings low-carbon aluminium to the US building sector
While millions of residents in major American cities were starting their day in sleek high-rise apartments, a significant agreement was being finalized in an unassuming office located in Mumbai. This agreement involved Indian producers and Reflection Window and Wall (RWW), aimed at ensuring those future generations of stunning skyscrapers would be constructed using low-carbon aluminium materials. These materials are defined as having less than 4 kilograms of carbon (kgCO2e) per kilogram of aluminium (kgAL), representing a remarkable carbon reduction of 75-85 per cent compared to current averages from US producers and other global sources of aluminium. This development marks a significant milestone, particularly in light of the projected doubling of the required buildings by 2060. A...
Australian govt. may adopt a new definition for 'critical minerals'
The Anthony Albanese-led Australian government plans to re-evaluate the definition of 'critical minerals' to align with the strategic requirements of the nation's defence and trade allies. This revision may include domestically abundant resources such as bauxite, coking coal, and iron ore in the critical minerals list, as reported by an Australian business-focused, compact daily newspaper covering Australia's and the world's current business and economic affairs. In the last five years, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union have broadened their catalogue of minerals essential for national security and economic development. This expansion directly responds to apprehensions that China could exploit its control over mineral supply chains through coercion. Madeleine...
Airbus renews supply contract with AMAG to meet surging production demand
Airbus, the world's largest manufacturer of airliners, renews the aluminium rolled products supply contract with AMAG Austria Metall AG, which positions the company to capitalize on escalating aircraft production rates and an expanded market presence. Over the upcoming years, the aluminium producer, based in Ranshofen, will continue delivering certified rolled products to Airbus, predominantly intended for use in the structural components and exterior panels of all Airbus aircraft models. AMAG and Airbus have forged an enduring partnership that commenced with a supply agreement in 1995. Over the years, the volume of deliveries has consistently grown, owing to their unwavering commitment to top-tier quality and reliability. An integral factor in this progress has been the substantial...
RHB marks Press Metal, Malayan Cement as standouts in the building materials sector
RHB Research has reaffirmed its "overweight" recommendation for the building materials sector, with Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd and Malayan Cement Bhd being their top selections. The research firm's optimism regarding aluminium is driven by several factors, including the current minimal inventory levels, the increasing emphasis on sustainability with a focus on solar panels and electric vehicles, as well as the expected resurgence in demand due to the anticipated growth in China's manufacturing and property sectors in the latter half of 2024. According to the International Aluminium Institute (IAI), global primary aluminium production reached an all-time high of 6.04 million tonnes in August 2023. Aluminium smelters located outside of China, primarily in Malaysia and Iran, have...
In Istanbul, ALUEXPO 2023: 8th International Aluminium Technology, Machinery and Products Trade Fair
ALUEXPO, one of the most important organizations in the aluminium industry world, has once again opened its doors to industry leaders and enthusiasts alike. This highly anticipated event serves as a hub for the latest advancements, innovations, and trends within the aluminium sector, fostering invaluable networking opportunities and knowledge exchange. ALUEXPO 2023 – 8 th International Aluminium Technology, Machinery and Products Trade Fair Hannover-Messe Ankiros Fuarcilik A.Ş. Date: 12-14 October 2023 Venue: İstanbul Expo Center, Halls 1, 2 and 3, İstanbul Visiting Hours: 10.00 – 18.00 Participants will establish new networks at ALUEXPO, Europe’s 2nd and Eurasia’s biggest aluminium fair. Take your place in the growing aluminium sector of Turkey and Eurasia by participating in this...
AL Circle launches its latest report, “Aluminium Foil and its End-Uses - Current Trends and Forecast”: Book Now
The aluminium foil industry is a hidden champion, a workhorse of modern life that often goes unnoticed yet plays a pivotal role in various sectors across the globe. Today, AL Circle is thrilled to announce the launch of the comprehensive industry-focused latest report, "Aluminium Foil and its End Uses - Current Trends and Forecast," designed to shed light on this versatile material and the myriad ways it influences our daily lives. Aluminium foil, a marvel of material science, has evolved from a simple kitchen essential to a multifaceted product with an array of conventional and cutting-edge applications. It is no longer just the humble wrapper for leftovers; it is an essential ingredient in industries spanning from food packaging and pharmaceuticals to automotive and construction. As the...
Technological innovations and manufacturing excellence will propel Indian automotive exports to reach $1 trillion by 2035
A new report released on October 4, 2023, indicates that India could achieve a $1 trillion export-driven automotive industry by 2035, focusing on manufacturing excellence, innovation, and technological dominance. According to a report from the Boston, USA-headquartered international management consulting firm Arthur D. Little, India has the opportunity to generate an additional $400 billion in revenue by 2035, in addition to the existing $600 billion trajectory, through a strategic emphasis on exports, innovation, and technology. This concerted effort could elevate India into a prominent global automotive centre. The report suggests that players in the Indian automotive industry must enhance their capabilities and establish India as a trusted and competitive centre for vehicle...
Swiss multinational SIG boosts Brazilian expansion with R$49 million investment in carton packaging facility
The Swiss multinational company SIG, specializing in aseptic packaging systems and solutions, has unveiled plans to invest €8.4 million (R$49 million) in the expansion of its carton packaging facility located in the city of Campo Largo within the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba. Aseptic carton packaging, composed of layers of paper, polyethylene, and a 5 per cent component of aluminium foil, serves as a protective shield against light and oxygen for the packaging. With the completion of its fifth expansion, the facility has significantly increased its annual production capacity to 5.2 billion units, a remarkable leap from its initial capacity of just 1 billion packages back in 2011. Staffed by approximately five hundred employees, this facility operates 24/7, ensuring continuous supply to...
Rio Tinto's Chairman pivots towards aluminium, promising a bright future for the metal
The rush to discover additional ventures in transition materials has instigated a reassessment of strategy at Rio Tinto. This involves an inclination towards smaller mining operations and potentially exploring more precarious, less-established locations. On October 6, 2023, Dominic Barton, Rio Tinto's chairman, indicated a more pronounced focus on aluminium, as customers are increasingly willing to pay extra for eco-friendly, sustainable products. He also emphasized the company's aspiration to participate in the growing lithium market. Dominic Barton mentioned that Rio Tinto's fresh strategy might involve embracing projects that commence on a smaller scale and have the potential to grow, often in collaboration with government or local partners, instead of exclusively pursuing the largest...
EU and US pursue interim agreement on aluminium and steel to prevent the resurgence of Trump tariffs underlining commitment to trade stability
European Union and U.S. leaders are actively working towards unveiling an interim agreement during the upcoming summit scheduled for October 20th. This agreement aims to prevent the reintroduction of trade tariffs on steel and aluminium, imposed initially during the Donald Trump administration. According to a recent report by Bloomberg News, this collaborative effort signifies a significant step forward in averting potential disruptions to transatlantic commerce. The negotiations represent a crucial element of diplomacy between these two economic powerhouses as they strive to foster stronger trade relations while mitigating any potential trade disputes that may arise. The forthcoming summit serves as a pivotal moment for both parties to solidify their commitment to fair and balanced trade...
ALFED report unveils far-reaching consequences of global conflicts on the UK aluminium industry
The Aluminium Federation, ALFED, has recently published a comprehensive report in collaboration with CRU International Ltd. This report delves into the ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine geopolitical crisis on the aluminium industry in the United Kingdom. It carefully analyses the effects of import sanctions imposed by the government in both the short-term and the foreseeable future while presenting viable alternative strategies to ensure a stable supply of primary aluminium. The report aims to safeguard the UK's robust aluminium supply chain, bolster domestic production, and mitigate the repercussions of geopolitical concerns. It examines the direct consequences on UK businesses stemming from the elimination of Russian materials in imports and anticipates the shifts in market dynamics...
Norwegian national budget proposal disappoints Hydro for weakened CO2 compensation and inadequate wind power taxation
The Norwegian government's national budget proposal, unveiled on October 6, contains various components that have implications for Hydro's activities within Norway. Of these, the most notable and concerning one pertains to the CO 2 compensation scheme. Hydro is surprised and expressed disappointment at the additional dilution of this scheme. Furthermore, the suggested taxation framework for wind power does not stimulate the necessary level of investments to guarantee a reliable power supply for both the industrial sector and the transition towards a more sustainable, environmentally friendly future. The total impact of changes in the CO2 compensation scheme for Hydro in 2023 is estimated at a reduction of approximately NOK 1 billion. According to Hydro, the Norwegian government's constant...
KANAL explores the recyclability of automotive aluminium production scrap
A coalition of industry stakeholders, which includes TOMRA and Gerhard Lang Recycling GmbH, has united to establish the "KANAL research initiative." Over the next three years, they aim to demonstrate the circular nature of aluminium by recycling functional new scrap from automobile production using LIPS technology. The automotive industry generates significant quantities of aluminium production scrap, typically collected, processed, and reused, albeit often resulting in lower-quality, less pure recyclable materials. In the KANAL research project, with a substantial €3.9 million in funding, a collaborative effort involving TOMRA, Gerhard Lang Recycling GmbH, the Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences, Germany, and the Jeanvré engineering firm aims to demonstrate the effective sorting and...
Old industrial business model fails, Germany is affected
The industrial engine of Europe, Germany, is degenerating into a drag. The fourth-largest economy in the world is Germany, after the United States, China and Japan, and it is the largest economy in Europe. The country is the third largest export nation globally with 70 per cent, while the service sector contributes the most significant part to the country’s GDP. The largest economy in the European Union, which has long been a source of growth, is projected to contract this year. The major economic think tanks in the nation predict that output will decline by 0.6 per cent in 2023 before slightly increasing to 1.3 per cent the following year. The direct reasons for the decline likewise impact the remainder of the EU. However, it is also shining a bright light on decades of underinvestment...
Constellium successfully concludes the sale of Landau, Crailsheim, and Burg facilities, strengthening the focus on core operations
On September 4, 2023, the leading full-service supplier of rolled and extruded aluminium solutions for the global automotive market, Constellium, completed the sale of its three soft alloy extrusion facilities in Landau, Crailsheim, and Burg in Germany to Vaessen Aluminium for a total cash amount of €48.8 million. However, this announcement follows the completion of the regulatory approval process. As a global leader, Constellium is dedicated to pioneering and delivering value-enhanced aluminium solutions across various markets and uses, encompassing aerospace, automotive, and packaging. In the year 2022, Constellium achieved an impressive €8.1 billion in revenue. Constellium is also a frontrunner in developing and manufacturing high-value-added aluminium products and solutions and in...
Rusal and China's AdTech Metallurgical Materials establish long-term co-operation
In 2022, AdTech Metallurgical Materials Co., Ltd initiated a cooperative partnership with the Russian aluminium giant Rusal, building a reputation and commendation of Rusal throughout their collaborative journey. AdTech's unwavering commitment to product quality and service excellence has solidified its standing in this collaboration. To provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment of AdTech's supply and management capabilities, Rusal sent a three-person qualification evaluation team to China in August 2023. Following an intensive two-day on-site inspection and a thorough review, AdTech not only met but exceeded Rusal's stringent supplier requirements and standards. Rusal subsequently delivered the qualification report to AdTech in early September, confirming AdTech's exceptional...
Revolutionising bridge construction: The rising dominance of aluminium
The construction industry is transforming with the rising dominance of aluminium in bridge construction. Traditionally, steel and concrete have been the primary materials for bridge infrastructure, but aluminium is now emerging as a game-changer. Its lightweight yet robust properties make it an ideal alternative for constructing bridges, offering numerous advantages. Aluminium bridges are more durable and resistant to corrosion, but they also require less maintenance and can be erected more rapidly, reducing construction time and costs. This shift towards aluminium revolutionises bridge engineering, providing innovative solutions for sustainable, cost-effective, and long-lasting infrastructure projects. The interest in aluminium is explained by its unique properties. They include low...
