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.

LME aluminium benchmark price ascends to US$2,191.5/t; SHFE price loses US$11/t
LME aluminium opened at US$2,237 per tonne yesterday, with its high and low at US$2,241.5 per tonne and US$2,223 per tonne, respectively, before closing at US$2,226.5 per tonne, down US$7.5 per tonne or 0.34 per cent. On Tuesday, March 5, both LME aluminium cash bid price and LME aluminium official settlement price added US$9 per tonne or 0.41 per cent to settle at US$2,191 per tonne and US$2,191.50 per tonne. As per the London Metal Exchange (LME) data, the 3-month bid price and 3-month offer price ascended by US$8 per tonne or 0.35 per cent to clock at US$2,233 per tonne and US$2,234 per tonne. December 25 bid price and December 25 offer price moved up by US$10 per tonne or 0.41 per cent to peg at US$2,443 per tonne and US$2,448 per tonne. LME aluminium opening stock halted at 583700...

IFC approves $90 million green loan to support Assan Alüminyum’s move towards sustainability
Assan Alüminyum, a leading manufacturer of flat-rolled aluminium, is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving sustainable growth. As part of this commitment, the company has embarked on a multi-year investment program, supported by a $90 million green loan from IFC (International Finance Corporation). A subsidiary of the Kibar Group, Assan Alüminyum plans to implement a series of sustainable technologies to enhance efficiency and environmental responsibility. About the investment program The investment program includes the installation of a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient cold rolling line alongside new continuous casting lines and upgraded filtration systems for both new and existing operations. These investments are designed to modernize production processes, increase...

Huaihua City launches two new aluminium-related projects
In the initial quarter of 2024, Huaihua initiated 65 significant projects, amounting to a total investment of RMB 15.484 billion. These projects are part of an annual planned investment totalling RMB 7.8 billion, showcasing a substantial commitment to development and growth in the region. The production project for aluminium electrolytic capacitors by Qingyuan Science and Technology at the Huaihua Land Port involves a total investment of RMB 200 million. Scope of construction and primary project components Rent the vacant warehouse in the E-3 building at Wulingshan Commercial Logistics City, covering approximately 20,000 square meters. The plan is to establish a capacitor production facility to combine solder and bolt capacitors. This facility will include 30 production and assembly lines...

Hydro Rein secures 80% stake in 2.4 GW wind projects with IOWN Energy deal
Hydro Rein, Hydro's venture into renewable growth, has recently finalised an agreement with the Swedish renewable energy developer IOWN Energy (IOWN) to acquire an 80 per cent stake in a substantial 2.4 GW portfolio of wind power projects. These projects are being developed across Sweden and Norway, spanning electricity price areas SE2, SE3, SE4, and NO2. About the agreement with IOWN The portfolio comprises 23 projects in Sweden and two in Norway, with many land lease agreements already secured. As part of the agreement, Hydro Rein and IOWN will embark on a long-term partnership to co-develop these projects, with an ownership split of 80 per cent for Hydro Rein and 20 per cent for IOWN. At this stage, the projects are in the early phases of development, and both companies plan to...

OZroll industries: Pioneering innovation in aluminium louvres and shutters
Since its inception in 1999, the Ozroll Group has emerged as the leading force in Australia for aluminium louvres, plantation shutters, outdoor blinds, and roller shutter production. Capral Aluminium, a crucial collaborator throughout OZroll's evolution, has fostered the company's growth and development. This partnership underscores OZroll's ongoing pursuit of environmentally conscious practices and dedication to a sustainable future. Capral and OZroll Embracing Capral's low-carbon aluminium, known as LocAl®, signifies a pivotal step in OZroll's dedication to sustainability. "Aluminium is incredibly versatile and recyclable. We have recently transitioned to purchasing Capral's innovative LocAl®, which significantly reduces carbon emissions. It's the ideal choice for us," said McDonald,...

Thöni Deutschland joins ASI as the new Production & Transformation member
Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) announced the joining of Thöni Deutschland GmbH as the new Production & Transformation member. For over 50 years, the Thöni Group has been committed to growth and sustainable practices. This strategy permeates every facet of our operations: from aluminium profiles crafted with up to 80 per cent recycled material to automotive components designed for lightweight construction and e-mobility to biogas plants that harness the energy of organic waste. Thöni Deutschland GmbH is an autonomous, family-run enterprise dedicated to flexibility, reliability, and unparalleled customer focus. At the heart of their success lies a commitment to tradition alongside an unwavering drive to forge a sustainable future, all while recognizing our social, ecological, and...

Average alumina spot price in China declines by RMB7/t; A00 aluminium ingot price grows to RMB19,030/t
On Tuesday, March 5, China's average alumina spot price declined by RMB 7 per tonne to arrive at RMB 3,335 per tonne. As per the SMM data, the prices in Bayuquan, Henan and Lianyungang have plunged by RMB 30 per tonne, RMB 15 per tonne and RMB 10 per tonne to arrive at RMB 3,260 per tonne, RMB 3,360 per tonne and RMB 3,265 per tonne. In Shandong and Shanxi, the alumina prices have dipped by RMB 5 per tonne to clock at RMB 3,250 per tonne and RMB 3,350 per tonne. As per the SMM data, the A00 aluminium ingot price has gained by RMB 90 per tonne to reside at RMB 19,030 per tonne, with the average prices standing between RMB 19,010 per tonne and RMB 19,050 per tonne. The spot contract price may be traded at a discount price of RMB 50 to RMB 10 per tonne. On the same day, the price in...

Primary aluminium weekly recap: Meridian Energy and NZAS sign agreement for 20MW electricity boost
In 2024, the market outlook for primary aluminium is forecasted to be mixed, with both upside and downside. The persistent global economic uncertainty is poised to exert a sustained influence on the outlook of the aluminium industry. As per AL Circle's report, "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024," primary aluminium production is estimated to increase by about 1.82%, reaching 70.3 million tonnes in 2023. Grab a copy of AL Circle's "Global Aluminium Industry Outlook 2024" report to know how the primary aluminium industry will function. Below is a list of the top news that created a buzz in the industry throughout the week: New Zealand Aluminium Smelters (NZAS) signed an agreement with Meridian Energy to offer 20MW of electricity to the national grid if required over 12 weeks this...

Virgin Atlantic takes off towards sustainability with eco-friendly aluminium vodka bottles
Virgin Atlantic has joined forces with Sapling Spirits to introduce an innovative, eco-friendly solution onboard: 5ml aluminium vodka bottles. These new bottles, available throughout the carrier's fleet in both economy and premium cabins, mark a significant step towards reducing the airline's glass and plastic waste consumption. First airlines to introduce these miniature bottles In a pioneering move, Virgin Atlantic becomes the first airline to introduce these miniatures, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. As part of this initiative, the airline has also set an ambitious goal of planting over 20,000 trees throughout its partnership with the esteemed British spirits brand. Shiada Drysdale, beverage lead at Virgin Atlantic, commented, We are simply delighted to partner with...

Reviving ALSCON: $500 million needed to kickstart production despite Nigeria’s ongoing crisis
In the face of Nigeria's foreign exchange crisis and other economic challenges leading many multinational companies to exit the country, the Managing Director of the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON), Mr Dmitriy Zaviyalov, remains optimistic about the company's future. Zaviyalov has stated that ALSCON is actively working towards restarting production in the country, undeterred by the prevailing economic conditions. He expressed hope that Nigeria's economy will improve in due course. Steps needed to restart production He disclosed that ALSCON requires approximately $500 million to kickstart its production operations. He elaborated that a significant portion of this amount will be allocated towards reviving dormant equipment that has been idle for a decade. Additionally, funds...

ASI accredits Novelis Sierre with the Performance Standard V3 certification
Novelis has recently achieved re-certification to the ASI (Aluminium Stewardship Initiative) Performance Standard V3 for all activities at their site in Sierre, Switzerland. This includes producing aluminium products through various processes such as casting, scalping, hot rolling, cold rolling, continuous heat treatment, finishing, and laser blanking. The company completed these re-certifications after June 1, 2023, ensuring compliance with the updated 2022 Standards. By successfully transitioning to the new certification, Novelis demonstrates its commitment to responsible production, sourcing, and stewardship in the aluminium value chain. The ASI Performance Standard V3 and the Chain of Custody Standard V2 were launched in May 2022, representing a heightened level of ambition for...

NPC Deputy advocates for increased recycled aluminium usage to boost sustainability within the industry
"The economic and social benefits of recycled aluminum are significant," said Li Xiehua, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) and Deputy Party Secretary and General Manager of Chinalco Advanced Manufacturing Co., Ltd. The company is lauded for its significant contributions to the automotive sector, particularly in pioneering aluminium alloy materials for lightweight components in new energy vehicles. This innovation aligns with global efforts towards energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. Importance of recycled aluminium Li emphasised the stark contrast in energy consumption between manufacturing and recycling new aluminium. Producing a tonne of new aluminium requires a substantial 13,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity, whereas a mere 600 kilowatt-hours are...

Crown Holdings to secure renewable energy from the cutting-edge PV project in Spain
In a visionary move towards sustainable energy, Crown Holdings, Inc. has forged a pioneering 15-year Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA) with Enel Green Power España (EGPE), the renewable energy arm of Endesa. This exemplary VPPA marks a significant leap for Crown, securing renewable electricity from a cutting-edge PV project nestled in the sun-kissed lands of Badajoz, Spain. About the agreement This landmark agreement is set to envelop the Crown's current operational presence across European countries within the esteemed Alliance of Issuing Bodies (AIB). This alliance is the custodian of the European Energy Certificate System, offering Crown an unprecedented pathway to propel its ambitious Twentyby30 sustainability program to new heights. By entering into this VPPA, Crown is taking a...

LME aluminium benchmark price expands to US$2,163/t; SHFE price hikes by US$19/t
LME aluminium opened at US$2,193.5 per tonne on Thursday, with its high and low at US$2,230.5 per tonne and US$2,186 per tonne, respectively, before closing at US$2,225 per tonne, up US$34 per tonne or 1.55 per cent. On Thursday, February 29, both LME aluminium cash bid price and LME aluminium official settlement price hiked by US$33 per tonne or 1.54 per cent to stand at US$2,162.50 per tonne and US$2,163 per tonne. 3-month bid price and 3-month offer price grew by US$26.5 per tonne or 1.21 per cent and US$26 per tonne or 1.19 per cent to US$2,206.50 per tonne and US$2,207 per tonne. On the same day, December 25 bid price and December 25 offer price ascended by US$22 per tonne or 0.91 per cent to clock at US$2,420 per tonne and US$2,425 per tonne. LME aluminium opening stock came in at...

EGA pioneers renewable power: Groundbreaking ceremony of the region’s first industrial data centres in Jebel Ali & Al Taweelah
On February 29, 2024, Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial company in the country outside the oil and gas sector, marked a significant milestone. The company announced the groundbreaking for the region's inaugural 100 per cent renewable energy-powered industrial data centres at its Jebel Ali and Al Taweelah sites. About the upcoming data centres The upcoming data centres will bolster the resilience of EGA's computing infrastructure and are set to achieve certification to the prestigious Uptime Institute's Tier III standard, which serves as a global benchmark for data centres. Globally, the demand for computing power currently constitutes approximately seven per cent of global electricity consumption. This figure is projected to surge to 13 per cent by 2030, as...

China-based Zhongchuang Co., Ltd. forges 10 tonnes of super wide and thick aluminium alloy plate
China-based Zhongchuang Co., Ltd. achieved a significant milestone by creating a domestically leading 10-tonne-class hard aluminium alloy ultra-thick plate, boasting its most comprehensive and highest strength. This forged plate, with dimensions of 4215x3040x270mm, underwent four consecutive firings to achieve its final form. Notably, it features a large, smooth surface free from folding or cracking. This achievement is a new record in China for producing large-tonnage, wide-width forged plates. Currently, the forged plate is undergoing heat treatment and machining processes. It is slated for delivery to the customer in March, meeting the urgent supply needs for a critical new product type after passing performance tests and inspections. The company's research institute, casting plant,...

India’s aluminium ADC12 price remains steady W-o-W amidst increased raw material prices
The spot prices for Aluminium ADC12 alloy ingot (equivalent to automobile grade) in Delhi remain steady at INR 204,000 per tonne week-on-week, excluding GST. This stability persists despite the rise in local Tense scrap prices, especially in regions like north and south India, where shortages have been noted. Market dynamics: Insights from participants In Chennai, current offers for Tense scrap range between INR 172,000 and INR 173,000 per tonne. However, bids are being placed in INR 170,000 to INR 171,000 per tonne. Meanwhile, the spot price for ADC12 in Chennai is reported at INR 208,000 to INR 210,000 per tonne ex-warehouse. Despite the tight availability of Tense scrap, ADC12 prices have remained relatively stable throughout the week. This shortage is affecting the northern region's...

IAI data reveals CO2e emissions drop despite a 3.9% growth in global aluminium production in 2022
Greenhouse gas, a significant source of concern within the realm of environmental science and mitigating its impact on the planet, is a crucial challenge for the future well-being of Earth and all its inhabitants. As per the International Aluminium Institute's (IAI) recent data, for the first time, the collective greenhouse gas emissions stemming from the worldwide aluminium sector remained static despite an expansion in aluminium production. Reduction in GHG & CO2e emission As per the IAI data, despite a 3.9 per cent increase in global aluminium production from 104.1 million tonnes to 108.2 million tonnes, total greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from the sector have remained stable. There was a slight decrease from 1.13 billion tonnes CO2e to 1.11 billion tonnes CO2e in 2022. IAI Secretary...
