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.
Joint monitoring system to track aluminium and steel exports from India to the US is in its final stages
On August 24, 2023, a senior official from the concerned department stated that establishing a collaborative monitoring system to oversee aluminium and steel exports from India to the US is nearing completion. This system must be in place before shipments of these metals from India can be introduced into the US market without incurring additional tariffs. The official added that establishing a collaborative monitoring mechanism is in its concluding phases. This framework will facilitate the oversight of exports for these goods and promptly resolve any disputes. In 2018, the administration of former President Donald Trump introduced extra tariffs on import s of these two metals using a national security statute. These tariffs amounted to 10% for aluminium and 25% for steel, and they were...
Leading aluminium manufacturer proposes premium of $120 per tonne for Japanese buyers in Q4
On August 25, 2023, three sources directly engaged in quarterly pricing discussions revealed that a worldwide aluminium manufacturer has proposed a premium of $120 per tonne to Japanese buyers for primary metal shipments scheduled for October to December, as reported by globally recognized news agency Reuters. This figure reflects a 6 per cent decrease from the current quarter's premium. Japan holds the title of Asia's largest importer of metal, establishing the standard for the region through the premiums it agrees to pay each quarter for primary metal shipments over the London Metal Exchange (LME) cash price CMAL0. Japanese buyers agreed to pay a premium of $127.5 per tonne for the July-September quarter, nearly in line with the prior quarter's levels.
Chalco Qinghai achieves the first national certification for 'Green Power Aluminium’
The initial roster of Chinese enterprises awarded the "Green Electricity Aluminium Product Evaluation Certificate" and "Green Electricity Aluminium Procurement Certificate" was disclosed on July 4 th , 2023. Among the pioneers, Chalco Qinghai Branch secured its position as one of the premier ten companies nationwide to successfully meet the standards for green power aluminium assessment. Notably, it is the sole entity within the Chinalco group to attain the esteemed "Green Power Aluminium Evaluation Certificate." The initiative, "Green Electricity Aluminium Evaluation", was undertaken by the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association to foster environmentally friendly and low-carbon progress within China's aluminium sector. The primary objective was to distinguish electrolytic aluminium...
CHALIECO reports loss for H1 2023
China Aluminium International Engineering (CHALIECO) reported a net loss of RMB 831 million attributed to shareholders during the initial half of 2023. This starkly contrasts with a profit of RMB 124 million documented in the same period the previous year. Notably, increased charges for asset impairment primarily influenced the negative financial result. Chalieco stands as a prominent Chinese engineering company with diverse operations encompassing engineering design and consultancy, engineering and construction contracting, as well as equipment manufacturing. This company holds the 124 th position among the world's largest construction firms, according to Engineering News-Record's 2013 ranking. It operates as a subsidiary of the Aluminium Corporation of China (Chinalco), which holds 83...
July 2023 sees almost 10% y-o-y rise in South Korea's auto production
As of April 1, 2021, South Korea's automotive industry ranks as the world's fifth-largest passenger car producer and holds the seventh position globally regarding vehicle sales. The sector is on an upward trajectory, constituting 13 per cent of manufacturing production and 12 per cent of overall workforce engagement in South Korea. Projections indicate that by 2032, the Hyundai Motor Group, encompassing Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, is poised to secure the third spot in sales among manufacturers. However, it has been reported that the automobile industry in South Korea maintained its positive momentum in July 2023, showing production growth compared to the same period last year. Nevertheless, there was a decrease in domestic sales when year-on-year figures were examined. In July 2023, the...
Vibrant industrial community to gather at the AVEVA World event in San Francisco
The smart software developer tailored for the manufacturing industry and beyond, AVEVA, invites you to participate in the electrifying event AVEVA World in San Francisco - designed specifically for the industrial community. The event this year will return to the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, California, USA and is scheduled to take place on October 23-26, 2023. Unveiling the secrets of effective industrial software implementation, AVEVA World is your gateway to discovering both the tried-and-true and the cutting-edge in this ever-evolving landscape. Unlock the potential of AVEVA software to engineer with intelligence and elevate operational prowess within your organization. Delve into a realm where insights converge with innovation as esteemed customers, partners, and...
Qingtongxia Aluminium achieves a milestone as the first 5G smart factory in the Chinese electrolytic aluminium sector
Qingtongxia Aluminium Industry Co., Ltd, a subsidiary owned by Ningxia Energy Aluminium Co., Ltd. and recognized as a prominent state-owned enterprise within China's Nonferrous Metals Industry, has officially commenced its operational activities. This milestone signifies the transformation of Qingtongxia Aluminium into the inaugural 5G-integrated smart factory within the domestic electrolytic aluminium sector. The factory's achievement establishes it as a pioneering exemplar for implementing intelligent manufacturing in the aluminium industry during the era of 5G technology. Additionally, it has set a precedent for the digitalized and smart evolution of the Qingtongxia Aluminium Industry, reflecting a novel trajectory for its growth. The construction of the Centralized Control Centre...
ALFED collaborates with Fronius UK and Cranfield University to present the cutting-edge ‘Aluminium Welding Technology Event’
ALFED, the Aluminium Federation, has joined forces with Fronius UK and Cranfield University to present an engaging and knowledge-packed day. This event will feature captivating demonstrations, and insightful discussions centred around the fascinating subject of aluminium joining. The Aluminium Welding Technology Event is scheduled to take place at Fronius UK's Technology Centre in Milton Keynes on September 27 th , 2023. This event is ideally suited for individuals engaged with the use of this lightweight and forward-looking metal, offering valuable insights into enhancing efficiency in their work practices. Discover the forefront advancements driving the future of welding technology in laser welding, manual and robotic welding, and wire arc additive manufacturing. This event provides an...
Bauxite mining to increase exponentially in Vietnam
The Vietnamese government's decision to initiate bauxite mining in the northern region, focusing on three previously unexplored sites, marks a significant step towards resource diversification. This strategic move aims to harness the potential of these untapped locations and underscores the importance of sustainable resource management in driving economic growth. As the demand for aluminium continues to rise, this endeavour could contribute to local development and the broader industrial landscape. On August 9, 2023, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated that the intention is to establish one location in Lang Son Province and two others in Cao Bang Province by 2030. However, the combined ore capacity will range from 1.55 to 2.25 million tonnes per year. Furthermore, two currently...
Befesa reports 8% y-o-y revenue growth in H1 2023
When globally, we are witnessing a downfall in terms of revenue and profits in the aluminium industry, Luxembourg-headquartered metal waste recycling house Befesa has released its financial outcomes for H1 2023, which denotes some positivity to the sector. The company achieved cumulative revenue of 615 million euros ($676.24 million). Moreover, the adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) for H1 2023 amounted to 95 million euros ($104.46 million). The company experienced an 8 per cent rise in revenue, reaching 615.5 million euros ($676.8 million) in H1 2023. This marked an improvement from the 572.5 million euros (around $629.5 million) recorded during the same period in 2022 . The noteworthy boost in revenue was primarily attributed to the...
Turnover at Alro Group declined in H1 2023
The Romanian aluminium producer Alro, a prominent vertically integrated aluminium producer in Europe, has released its combined and individual financial outcomes for H1 2023, concluding on June 30th. During this period, the collective revenue of the organization declined to 1.55 billion RON, as opposed to the previous figure of 2.1 billion RON. This reduction was attributable to diminished LME valuations and the temporary closure of the ALUM alumina refinery. Over the same span, the Group incurred a net deficit of 164 million RON, contrasting with a net gain of 15.3 million RON in the corresponding period of 2022 . Marian Năstase, the Chairman of the Board of Directors at ALRO, said, “Over the past 20 years, we invested more than USD 530 million in ALRO’s development and transformation,...
Brazil’s integrated aluminium company CBA reschedules its capex program
The Brazilian integrated aluminium company Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio (CBA) operates in an integrated manner, from mining to the final product has adjusted its capital expenditure (capex) program's timeline due to a progressively demanding price environment. In its Q2 financial results, CBA stated, "The timeline for expansion projects will be extended, with the expected completion of some projects moving from 2025 to 2027. The main delays are the restart of pot room 1 and the technological upgrade of smelters." "The capex reduction in the quarter, primarily in the modernization and expansion item, is due to the initiatives to adjust the schedule of projects, which are multi-year and have the flexibility to be reviewed according to operational cash flow and market conditions." CBA's...
Robotics technology enhances productivity in the aluminium industry
The development of numerically controlled machinery and the increasing prevalence of computers paved the way for the emergence of the first industrial robots. Griffith "Bill" P. Taylor is credited with creating the first industrial robot that adhered to the ISO definition in 1937. The robot featured was equipped with one electric motor and was assembled using Meccano components, resembling the appearance of a crane. Among its various movements, the robot had five axes, two facilitating gripping and rotation capabilities. Its automation system relied on paper tape, which had strategically placed holes punched in it. These holes served to power solenoids, enabling the robot to autonomously arrange wooden blocks in pre-defined patterns. After the year 1980, there was a significant surge in...
Visakhapatnam Port achieves historic bauxite handling milestone in July 2023
In July, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) achieved remarkable milestones in handling bauxite and manganese, setting new records for the highest tonnage ever recorded in a calendar month. The port efficiently handled an impressive throughput of 259,242 tonnes of bauxite, surpassing its previous record of 181,741 tonnes in September 2016. This achievement was made possible by efficiently managing two vessels carrying bauxite. Visakhapatnam Port, situated on the Eastern Coast of India, is the sole major port in Andhra Pradesh and one of the twelve significant operational ports in the country. In terms of cargo volume handled it stands as India's third-largest state-owned port, underscoring its crucial role in maritime trade and commerce. Additionally, the VPA demonstrated its...
Japanese aluminium major UACJ posts weak Q2CY23 financial results
In the bustling city of Tokyo, Japan, the aluminium giant UACJ, which had long been known for its unwavering performance, the company experienced challenges in delivering the best results during the second quarter of CY23 (April to June 2023). The Japanese comprehensive aluminium manufacturer UACJ's financial results for Q2CY23 reflected some downward trends in the industry. The company's net sales, which had once soared high, were now recorded at JPY 211.1 billion, marking a significant 17.6 per cent decline compared to the same period in the previous year. The numbers were a stark reminder that even giants could face turbulent times. Operating income was also heavily impacted, experiencing a sharp fall of 53.9 per cent to JPY 8.2 billion. The company's top brass was worried, as this...
Vedanta names John Slaven as the Chief Executive Officer of its Aluminium Business
On August 4, 2023, the Indian multinational mining and metal company Vedanta Ltd. announced through an exchange filing that it appointed John Slaven as the Chief Executive Officer for its Aluminium Business. Vedanta stated that the Board of Directors approved the appointment during a meeting held earlier in the day. Slaven has been appointed to the position of Senior Management Personnel (SMP) effective October 03, 2023, for a term of 3.5 years. John is an esteemed global leader with extensive experience in the metals and mining industry, holding key executive positions at renowned companies such as Alcoa, the Pittsburgh-based industrial corporation, BHP Billiton, a major Australian mining and metals corporation, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG). He earned his bachelor's degree in...
China's high-speed rail network set to broaden: New expansion in the works
China's already vast high-speed rail network considered the world's most extensive, is set to undergo further expansion. In the upcoming months, an extensive expansion of the country's electrified rail transport is set to be completed. This expansion will introduce several new rail lines, including a 277km (172-mile) connection between Fuzhou and Xiamen, a 203km route connecting Guangzhou and Shantou, and a 278 km link linking Shanghai and Nanjing, as reported in South China Morning Post. However, this needs to be noted that upon commencement, the new lines will extend for a distance exceeding half the length of Germany's high-speed railway network. Each line will accommodate trains with a maximum operating speed of 350km/h (217mph). China's CRH factory in Qingdao plays a significant role...
China restricts gallium and germanium exports, Europe explores boosting domestic production
A London-based independent provider of market intelligence reported that China's recent implementation of export controls on gallium and germanium had triggered conversations concerning the potential necessity to boost the production of these metals within Europe. However, the feasibility of such expansion remains to be determined, as it heavily depends on establishing a viable business case. Gallium is obtained as a by-product during bauxite ore processing to produce aluminium. Similarly, germanium is a by-product of the zinc refining process. Additionally, a portion of the global germanium supply is sourced from fly ash in coal deposits. Following China's announcement of export controls , European aluminium and zinc refineries have been approached to explore the feasibility of...
