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.
Surging demand for low-carbon aluminium defies consumption forecasts: Hydro
The chief executive officer of the Norwegian aluminium giant conveyed to one of the most recognised international news agencies that Hydro anticipates a rapid increase in demand for its low-carbon aluminium in the coming years. Furthermore, Hilde Merete Aasheim, the CEO, noted that US customers are growing interested in recycled materials. Aluminium is pivotal in transitioning to cleaner energy, particularly in electric vehicles. Its lightweight construction utilisation enhances the driving range of EVs while compensating for the weight of other components, such as batteries. The process in the production of primary aluminium requires substantial electricity consumption, which is highly carbon-intensive. As a result, environmentally conscious consumers seek to maximize their use of...
Epsilon Group acquires Johnson Matthey’s LFP cathode technology centre in Germany
Epsilon Group, headquarters in Mumbai-India, supplies coal tar derivatives to key industries such as aluminium, graphite, carbon black, and speciality chemicals and is a manufacturer of battery material solutions, producing high-calibre, innovative, and environmentally conscious lithium-ion battery (LiB) materials has made public its acquisition of Johnson Matthey's lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) cathode active material technology centre in Moosburg, Germany. However, the financial details of the acquisition are yet to be revealed. The facility is renowned for its cutting-edge technological expertise and a highly proficient workforce specialising in LFP chemistry. Furthermore, it boasts extensive capabilities for both product and process development. The facility encompasses a flexible...
China's exports to Russia outpace inbound shipments, raising trade imbalance concerns
Russia is currently grappling with managing around 150,000 surplus shipping containers in its rail depots, a consequence of a substantial increase in the influx of Chinese goods into the country, while there needs to be more outward-bound movement. According to an analysis released by Hamburg-based trading platform Container xChange on September 28, 2023. Christian Roeloffs, the Co-founder and CEO of Container xChange, stated, “There is significant cargo movement from China into Russia but very scarce movement back to China from Russia. This has a “tremendously detrimental impact on the business of container logistics because of the high imbalance of demand and supply.” China is the largest consumer and producer of aluminium, accounting for more than half of the global consumption. China...
Nvolve joins the Aluminium Federation to spearhead sustainable manufacturing excellence
Nvolve, a renowned global provider of workforce training and operational excellence solutions, has announced its membership with the Aluminium Federation (ALFED). This strategic collaboration underscores Nvolve's unwavering dedication to advancing sustainable manufacturing practices and achieving operational efficiency. Nvolve's membership with ALFED demonstrates its commitment to advancing an environmentally sustainable and operationally efficient manufacturing ecosystem. ALFED, a prominent trade association, unites businesses within the aluminium industry, nurturing progress and sustainability and adopting optimal industry practices. Barry Harper, the CEO at Nvolve, said, "We are thrilled to join ALFED, an organisation that shares our values and vision for the future of manufacturing....
EGA celebrates remarkable achievement: Zero heat-related illnesses for yet another summer
On October 03, 2023, Emirates Global Aluminium proudly announced that it has successfully maintained a second consecutive summer with no heat-related illnesses among its workforce. Working outdoors in the United Arab Emirates during the summer can pose a severe risk of heat-related illnesses, which, if not promptly addressed, can lead to fatalities. In addition to this environmental challenge, EGA's industrial operations generate extra heat and must remain operational 24/7 throughout the year. EGA has dedicated over a decade to refining its system for mitigating heat-related illnesses. The company's yearly "Beat the Heat" initiative represents a comprehensive, extended summer campaign encompassing all of EGA's operations. Employees undergo training to identify early indicators of heat...
Key highlights from the global aluminium industry, September 2023
In September 2023, the aluminium industry witnessed increased demand and supply, leading to marginal price growth on the London Metal Exchange (LME) and the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE). The production in the Chinese aluminium industry has shown positivity in the month, and our forecast remains that the conditions will improve for the rest of the year. The economic slowdown in the Western world and some Asian countries remains a concern in the global manufacturing sector. Aluminium, the herald of sustainability, is forging a path toward a brighter future as the metal of choice. Its eco-friendly properties are catalysing a transformative shift in our world. The key highlights from the global aluminium industry from the month of September are below: Constellium SE, a prominent global...
Get ready for the aluminium industry's ultimate gathering in Nashville at Aluminium USA 2023!
Aluminium USA stands out as the premier exhibition and technical conference dedicated to the aluminium industry. It is an industry event covering the entire value chain from upstream (mining, smelting) via midstream (casting, rolling, and extrusions) to downstream (finishing, fabrication). Aluminium USA offers a forum for leading suppliers and industry professionals to come together for face-to-face meetings, exhibitions, cutting-edge conferences, educational programming, and technology-based networking opportunities. The Aluminium USA 2023 networking party is taking place on October 25th-October 26th at the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame. Over the course of two days, this event brings together professionals for a comprehensive experience featuring exhibitions, networking...
EU initiates world's first carbon border tariff to curb environmental impact from imported goods
The European Union has initiated the rollout of a groundbreaking carbon border tax intending to mitigate the environmental consequences associated with imported products, including aluminium, steel, fertilizer and cement. On Sunday, October 1st, 2023, the EU introduced the new tariff (CBAM), which mandates importers of aluminium, cement, iron and steel, fertilizers, electricity, and hydrogen to report their production emissions when entering the European Union. In 2026, emissions from imported goods will be subject to a charge, requiring importers to purchase certificates corresponding to the amount of carbon emissions generated during production. EU claimed, "Climate change is a global problem that needs global solutions." This measure aims to counteract "carbon leakage," a phenomenon...
Reynaers Middle East welcomes Bert Geerinckx as the new Group CEO of Reynaers Aluminium
Reynaers Middle East (RME), the regional office of Reynaers Aluminium, one of Europe's leading companies specialising in aluminium solutions, welcomed Bert Geerinckx, the newly appointed Group CEO of Reynaers Aluminium, during his visit to their regional headquarters in Bahrain. Ali Khalaf, the Managing Partner of RME, warmly welcomed Bert Geerinckx and congratulated him on his new appointment as the Group CEO. Khalaf also conveyed his best wishes for Geerinckx's success in his upcoming responsibilities. Geerinckx's visit included a comprehensive briefing on the company's operations, activities, and projects in the rapidly growing Middle East region, a crucial target market for Reynaers Aluminium. Additionally, the Group CEO had valuable discussions with the RME team members in Bahrain...
Researchers develop low-cost aluminium formate (ALF) capable of hydrogen storage at non-cryogenic temperatures
According to the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, the hydrogen industry faces challenges related to limited investments and an uncertain profit model. They recommend a strategic focus on hydrogen storage solutions to address these issues. Their proposal suggests that large-scale storage facilities should be established in proven salt caverns, primarily in countries such as Poland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. However, they anticipate less potential for such storage in southern European regions. Researchers in the United States and Singapore have introduced a cost-effective solution called aluminium formate (ALF) for hydrogen storage. ALF can store significant quantities of hydrogen at temperatures at non-cryogenic levels, specifically at temperatures greater than 120 k (Kelvin),...
Henan Zhongfu High Precision Aluminium Company achieves SCS Global Certification
China's Henan Zhongfu High Precision Aluminium Company has achieved a significant milestone by securing certification from SCS Global (US Global Scientific Certification System) and receiving the prestigious "Kingfisher - Recycled Ingredient Declaration" certificate (able to feature the Kingfisher eco-label) Since its establishment in 1984, SCS has consistently been at the forefront of sustainability standards and third-party certification, playing a pivotal role across various sectors of the economy, including natural resources, the built environment, food and agriculture, consumer products, and the climate sector. Founded in 1990, the SCS Recycled Content Certification Program has empowered manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to maintaining natural resources, advancing...
Indus Towers partners with IOC Phinergy to deploy aluminium-air technology zero-emission energy systems
India's largest mobile tower installation company, Indus Towers, has signed an agreement with IOC Phinergy (IOP) to deploy 300 zero-emission energy systems to cut diesel consumption at Indus' telecom tower sites. According to the company's statement, Indus Towers will accelerate its sustainability efforts with this move. "Indus Towers Limited and IOC Phinergy Private Limited (IOP) have signed an agreement to deploy 300 zero-emission energy systems based on aluminium-air technology to optimise diesel consumption at Indus' telecom tower sites." Prachur Sah, the CEO of Indus Towers, has articulated the company's commitment to its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) vision, emphasizing its dedication to fostering environmental responsibility, social accountability, and strong...
End of an Era: Speira announces closure of Rheinwerk aluminium smelter production after six decades of operation
After an incredible 62-year run of smelting operations, the German Speira company is embarking on a transformative journey. In a bold and forward-thinking move, the company has decided to cease the production of primary aluminium by the end of 2023, with the last of the potlines scheduled to be shut down by December. The closure of the aluminium smelting operations marks a turning point in Speira's history, and the company is now embracing a pioneering concept. The iconic Rheinwerk facility, once the heart of their aluminium production, is transforming remarkably into a state-of-the-art recycling-based foundry. This visionary shift aligns Speira with the principles of sustainability, eco-consciousness, and a circular economy. The company is committed to reducing its environmental...
Indonesia: Ministry of National Planning and Development visits Nanshan Bintan Alumina to further strengthen government-enterprise collaboration
On September 23, 2023, the secretary of the Ministry of National Development and Planning, Indonesia, visited the Chinese industrial investment project Nanshan Bintan Alumina Co., Ltd. to strengthen government-enterprise cooperation and exchanges as well as promote the development of the Karangbatang Special Economic Zone. Nanshan Indonesia Bintan Alumina Co., Ltd. warmly welcomed the secretary and his delegation, expressing gratitude to the Indonesian National Development Planning Department and various government departments for their sustained interest and support. They provided a comprehensive overview of the current development status, future growth trajectory, development priorities, and the industrial layout within the Special Zone. Subsequently, the secretary and his team were...
Howmet Aerospace welcomes Gunner Smith as the newest addition to its Board of Directors
The Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, headquartered Howmet Aerospace Inc. has revealed that its Board of Directors has chosen Gunner Smith, currently holding the position of President - Roofing at Owens Corning, to assume the role of an independent director on the Board, starting from September 29, 2023. Howmet Aerospace Inc. is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, airframe structural components necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defence applications, and forged aluminium wheels for commercial transportation. John C. Plant, the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Gunner brings...
Japan's primary aluminium imports witnessed 30% downfall in Jan-Aug on the grounds of sluggish demand
On September 28, 2023, according to trade data released by the Ministry of Finance, Japan stated that the country's August imports of primary aluminium declined by 16 per cent compared to the previous year, totalling 95,630 tonnes. This marks a cumulative decrease of 30 per cent for the year. As reported by traders and aluminium manufacturers, Asia's largest importer of the lightweight metal used in transportation, construction, and packaging has experienced a significant decrease. This decline can be attributed to slow demand within the domestic construction sector and a lacklustre performance in export markets. The Japanese imports of primary aluminium ingots for the period from January to August totalled 711,627 tonnes, marking a 30 per cent decrease compared to the previous year. A...
Global competition and energy crisis continue to challenge the German aluminium industry: Aluminium Deutschland
The European Parliament's inclusion of aluminium in the Strategic Raw Materials list in the forthcoming Critical Raw Materials Act marks a significant development. Concurrently, Aluminium Deutschland conveys that the German aluminium industry continues to grapple with challenges, primarily in terms of securing a stable energy supply and enhancing its global competitive position. A recent survey of its members found that more than 50 per cent of the participating companies are currently facing supply and pricing challenges in the energy markets. Additionally, one out of every seven respondents indicated that their situation has deteriorated. Looking ahead, 40 per cent of the participants anticipate experiencing further adverse effects in the upcoming months. Most of the survey...
Aluminium alloys for aerospace applications: Exploring high-performance alloys
For many years, the aircraft and aerospace industries have heavily depended on using aluminium alloys. The pioneering aircraft would not have been able to achieve flight without applying aluminium alloys in their engines. The Sputnik satellite, launched by Soviet Russia (presently Russia), successfully endured its journey through the scorching outer atmosphere and into space due to its aluminium-based construction. Even in contemporary times, NASA continues to employ an advanced aluminium-lithium hybrid in the cutting-edge Orion spacecraft. Aluminium alloys play a pivotal role in engineering commercial aeroplanes and intricate space-bound shuttles. These alloys are most frequently utilized in constructing fuselages, wings, and supporting structures, providing an array of advantages for...
