AlCircle News Edited By "Sarnali Chakraborty"
Sarnali Chakraborty is a content writer with 2 years of experience. She has written articles on various genres like technical, creative, medical, to name some. Here in Alcircle she will be curating articles on the metal industry, writing newsletters and other online and offline content.
Maxion Wheels to source power from its newly launched solar firm in Chihuahua
Maxion Wheels' light vehicle aluminium wheel plant in Chihuahua, Mexico, has begun sourcing power from its newly operational solar farm, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability efforts. The solar farm, which was inaugurated during a recent kickoff event, was installed by Iberdrola México and has a capacity of 499 kW, with an expected annual energy generation of 960 MWh. Image Source: Maxion Wheels Commitment to emission reduction This addition to the plant's energy mix highlights Maxion's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing environmentally responsible manufacturing practices. Maxion's Chihuahua solar project is the company's third solar initiative and a key component of its sustainability strategy, Roadmap Zero, which aims for net-zero carbon emissions by...
Back to aluminium? iPhone 17 Pro touted to replace titanium with the green metal
Innovation and sophistication perfectly define Apple, the American tech giant celebrated worldwide for its cutting-edge gadgets and electronics. Beyond its iconic products, Apple is equally renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. And talking about sustainability, as per the reports, the 2025 iPhone 17 Pro may transition from a titanium build to an aluminium one. Image Source: macworld.com The phone's back will feature a combination of aluminium and glass, potentially reducing weight while maintaining a glass window for wireless charging. Additionally, the camera bump is expected to switch from glass to aluminium and become larger. However, whether these changes will come with a redesigned overall look or simply a material update remains unclear. Why...
Breakthrough innovation: National University of Science and Technology (NU) trio turns palm waste into circular green aluminium
Three students from the National University of Science and Technology (NU), Oman—Al Yaqeen Amur Asuti, Reem Ahmed al Qassabi, and Ahamed al Awad—have developed an innovative device that converts palm waste into circular green aluminium. Their project, titled ‘Green Initiative for Utilising Omani Palm Waste to Produce Circular Green Aluminium’, marks a groundbreaking step toward fostering a zero-waste, sustainable economy in Oman. Story behind the initiative Dr Shabib al Rashdi, the project’s supervisor, explained that the initiative stemmed from the urgent need to address Oman’s agricultural waste challenge, particularly the substantial waste generated by palm trees. Launched two years ago, this project aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 and sustainability goals, presenting an eco-friendly...
A sustainable treat with Dengo Chocolates’ new 100% recyclable truffle packaging with aluminium bands
Dengo Chocolates, a Brazilian bean-to-bar chocolate brand, introduced an innovative truffle packaging this year that is 100 per cent recyclable, featuring aluminium bands and no plastic. This development follows two years of extensive research and development, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainability and minimising environmental impact. Image Source: Dengo Chocolates Dengo tested 19 different rolls of paper, varnishes, and aluminium strips to achieve this breakthrough, carefully selecting the optimal combination. The process involved a deep focus on innovation and sustainability while ensuring the packaging met the standards set by Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), all without compromising the chocolate’s quality or flavour. The new packaging, crafted...
Akatswiri Mineral Resources' $820M aluminium project a game changer for Malawi's economy
Akatswiri Mineral Resources is optimistic about its $820 million aluminium production project, which can potentially transform Malawi's industrial landscape. The company has completed a feasibility study for mining bauxite deposits in the Mulanje Mountain region. It plans to refine the ore into alumina and smelt it into aluminium—a vital metal used across numerous global industries. Image Source - Linkedin (Hilton Banda) The bauxite deposits at the Linje and Lichenya sites on Mulanje Mountain are projected to deliver substantial yields, with an annual mining target of 580,000 metric tonnes. This output is expected to be processed into 100,000 metric tonnes of aluminium each year. With current market prices at $2,600 per tonne, the project could generate approximately $260 million in...
SMM A00 aluminium ingot price opens week with a growth of RMB60/t; Alumina price adds RMB10/t
On Monday, November 25, the A00 aluminium ingot price opened the week with a growth of RMB 60 per tonne to settle at RMB 20,670 per tonne, with the spot contract price expected to be traded at a premium price of RMB 50 to RMB 90 per tonne. The average prices may range between RMB 20,670 per tonne and RMB 20,690 per tonne. On the same day, the prices grew in all the provinces, with the highest in Hangzhou, where it has hiked by RMB 90 per tonne to settle at RMB 20,700 per tonne, followed by a surge of RMB 70 per tonne to halt at RMB 20,590 per tonne in Foshan. In Tianjin and Linyi, the prices have risen by RMB 60 per tonne to clock at RMB 20,700 per tonne and RMB 20,690 per tonne. In Gongyi and Wuxi the domestic aluminium ingot prices have added RMB 50 per tonne to peg at RMB 20,590 per...
Baise Guangtou Yinhai Aluminum bags the prestigious spot in Guangxi’s 2024 Intelligent Manufacturing Benchmark List
The Department of Industry and Information Technology of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region recently unveiled the list of 2024 Guangxi Intelligent Manufacturing Benchmark Enterprises, Intelligent Factory Demonstration Enterprises, and Digital Workshops. Through continuous technological innovation and efficient management, Baise Guangtou Yinhai Aluminum emerged as a standout, earning a spot on the prestigious list of Intelligent Manufacturing Benchmark Enterprises in Guangxi. In recent years, Baise Guangtou Yinhai Aluminum has aligned with national advancements in intelligent manufacturing, actively driving the integration of cutting-edge information technologies into the manufacturing sector. The company has introduced and implemented advanced equipment and technologies, carrying out a...
Upstream Weekly: Oman advances ambitious aluminium industry cluster in Suhar; Vedanta partners with GAIL to power Jharsuguda smelter with natural gas
The global aluminium industry is witnessing significant developments as key players take steps towards sustainability and economic growth. Oman, the oldest independent state in the Arab world, is moving forward with plans to establish an Integrated Economic Cluster for Aluminium Industries in Suhar, a hub for substantial investments in the aluminium sector. In India, Vedanta is furthering its commitment to renewable energy by partnering with GAIL Gas Limited to transition its Jharsuguda smelter to natural gas, a move expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 47,292 tonnes annually by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, Alcoa Corporation, a leader in the global aluminium market, has joined the World Economic Forum’s First Movers Coalition Suppliers Hub, contributing to the collective goal of achieving...
Lidl Hungary hits 150 million milestones with aluminium cans & other recyclable items
Lidl Hungary has achieved a significant milestone with its innovative return system, surpassing 150 million returned items, including aluminium cans, plastic bottles, and glass bottles. The company greatly emphasises sustainability and environmental protection, actively supporting its customers in making eco-friendly choices. Image Source: Lidl Since January 1, 2024, nearly one in four recyclable waste items collected at REpont locations nationwide has been returned by customers to one of Lidl's 210 stores, underscoring the supermarket chain's commitment to environmental stewardship and its leadership in the market. Lidl Hungary is committed to environmental protection and sustainability, reflecting its values as a responsible company. Embracing this commitment, Lidl was among the first...
Ruixin Technology announces $3 million investment for its upcoming production base in Thailand
On Tuesday, October 29, Ruixin Technology announced plans to support its overseas business expansion by establishing a production base in Thailand. The company, in collaboration with its wholly-owned subsidiary Ruixinchang (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd., has jointly invested in the creation of Ruixin Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. Ruixin Technology is a leading domestic high-tech enterprise specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of industrial precision aluminium alloy components. The project aims to establish a production base in Beiliufu, Thailand, by leasing a 2,576-square-meter workshop. Ruixin Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. will introduce advanced production equipment, including the Shenya T10 vertical machining centre, a CNC automatic line, and an ultrasonic...
Minfa Aluminum plans to expand its market reach with new venture in Gansu
On October 24, Minfa Aluminum announced its plan to establish Gansu Minfa Aluminum Co., Ltd., aimed at advancing its strategic development and broadening its market presence. The new company will be jointly funded by Minfa Aluminum and Gansu Zhongsheng Aluminum Co., Ltd., pending approval and registration by relevant industrial and commercial authorities. Image Source: CHAL Aluminium Corporation Gansu, a province in north-central China, is renowned for its historical landmarks. The city of Jiayuguan stands out for its iconic Overhanging Great Wall and the majestic Jiayuguan Pass fortress complex, both integral parts of the Great Wall of China. Gansu Minfa will have a registered capital of RMB 5 million, with Minfa Aluminum contributing RMB 3.5 million for a 70 per cent stake. At the same...
Hulamin’s cold mill upgrade aims to resolve tight edge issues in aluminium strips
Primetals Technologies has successfully signed the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC) with Hulamin, a leading aluminium producer, following the installation and commissioning of advanced hot edge inductors for the cold mill rolling line (S5) in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. This upgrade targets eliminating tight edge issues in aluminium strips encountered during high-speed rolling, significantly enhancing product quality. Image Source: Primetals Technologies The newly installed moving induction heating head assemblies are strategically positioned on the exit side of the mill, beneath the exit delivery table. These assemblies, placed just outside the strip width near the roll surface, effectively mitigate thermal camber, addressing the tight edge challenges during high-speed rolling...
China’s alumina price grows to RMB5691/t; A00 aluminium ingot price loses RMB90/t
According to the Shanghai Metals Market (SMM) on Friday, November 22, the price of alumina has added RMB 18 per tonne to settle at RMB 5,691 per tonne. On the same day, the prices in Shanxi, Henan and Shandong have grown by RMB 25 per tonne and RMB 20 per tonne to settle at RMB 5,750 per tonne, RMB 5,695 per tonne and RMB 5,670 per tonne. In Guizhou and Guangxi, the prices have moved up by RMB 10 per tonne to halt at RMB 5,640 per tonne and RMB 5,630 per tonne. The alumina prices in regions like Lianyungang and Bayuquan have remained unchanged at RMB 6050 per tonne. A00 aluminium ingot On the other hand, the domestic price of A00 aluminium ingot dropped by RMB 90 per tonne to settle at RMB 20,610 per tonne. The spot contract price is expected to be traded at a premium price of RMB 60 to...
Young creators from local schools shine in Alupro and re3’s Fantastic Foil Competition
Earlier on Wednesday, March 6, Alupro and re3 (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)—a waste partnership representing Bracknell Forest, Reading, and Wokingham Borough Councils—launched an exciting creative sculpture competition for local schools. The results of the competition are out and young winners have been announced. The competition was part of the 'Fantastic Foil' initiative, aimed at inspiring 190,000 households across the three boroughs to recycle aluminium foil and other aluminium packaging. Each winner received a £20 voucher, while their schools were awarded £100 vouchers for books, supplies, and activities. re3 (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), a waste management partnership uniting Bracknell Forest, Reading, and Wokingham Borough Councils, has joined forces with Alupro to encourage residents in...
Aluminium from retired aircraft gets a new lease on life with Nandina REM’s recycling revolution
Singapore-based start-up Nandina REM is changing the game with a pioneering approach to aircraft recycling. The company transforms materials, including aluminium, into high-quality, ultra-low-emission, and traceable resources for industries like aviation and automotive. These materials can be used in new aircraft and diverse products, such as battery casings for electric vehicles. Nandina REM leverages advanced technology With major global trading houses like Sumitomo and aluminium leaders such as Press Metal on board, Nandina REM leverages advanced technology and material science to preserve the quality of aluminium alloys. By supplying high-grade secondary aluminium to manufacturers, the company helps reduce reliance on primary aluminium, promoting a more sustainable future. “We see...
Australian Aluminium Council unites with AAEA, strengthening the downstream manufacturing sector
The Australian Aluminium Council (AAC) is set to strengthen the nation's aluminium industry by incorporating the Australian Aluminium Extrusion Association (AAEA) into its membership and organisational framework. This strategic integration establishes a unified, independent advocacy body representing the entire aluminium sector in Australia. Image Source: Australian Aluminium Council This integration will strengthen the Australian Aluminium Council's mission to foster a greater understanding of the domestic and international aluminium industry. By uniting these organisations, the Council seeks to drive the growth and sustainability of Australia's aluminium sector. As a cornerstone of the global transition to clean energy, aluminium is one of the most essential commodities. With its...
EGA & Mubadala to launch UAE’s first national high-temperature materials research & innovation lab
Mubadala Investment Company, in partnership with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), Strata Manufacturing Company, and Khalifa University of Science and Technology, has embarked on an ambitious initiative to create the UAE's first national laboratory and research program focused on high-temperature materials. This joint effort seeks to develop a centre of excellence for both academic and industrial research within the nation, removing the reliance on conducting such studies overseas. Image Source- EGA website Enhancing UAE's research capabilities The initiative marks a major step forward in enhancing the UAE's research capabilities and aligns with the nation's vision of fostering innovation and technological advancement. Situated on Khalifa University's main campus in Abu Dhabi, this...
Formnext 2024: Equispheres and 3D Systems partner to accelerate aluminium 3D printing for aerospace & automotive
Equispheres, Inc., a leading metal powder producer in Canada, announced a supply agreement with South Carolina-based 3D Systems at the Formnext 2024. This partnership enables the use of Equispheres’ North American-produced aluminium powder with 3D Systems’ DMP Flex 350 and DMP Factory 350 Laser Beam Powder Bed Fusion (PBF-LB) Additive Manufacturing machines. Image Source: 3D Systems Testing has reportedly demonstrated up to a 50 per cent increase in productivity and an average part density of 99.8 per cent, with a build rate of 49.7 cc/hr at a 60 µm layer thickness on the DMP Flex 350. Integrating Equispheres’ aluminium is anticipated to help customers achieve faster build speeds for the production of automotive and aerospace components, such as lightweight brackets, supports, heat...
