Power cost of EUR 600 vs EUR 1,800 per tonne: How electricity prices are reshaping Europe’s aluminium industry (Part 1)
How much does it really cost to produce aluminium in Europe, and can the region’s smelters compete with producers in the US and China? Beyond electricity prices, the economics of primary and recycled aluminium, industrial electrification and changing automotive demand are shaping the future of Europe’s aluminium industry. In this exclusive interview with AL Circle, Dr Martin Iffert, Founder and CEO of Martin Iffert Consulting, examines these challenges, discussing smelter economics, recycling competitiveness and the outlook for Europe’s 2040 electrification vision. He also shares his views on Germany’s production landscape and the investments needed to improve productivity and strengthen the aluminium value chain. Dr Iffert brings over 30 years of industry experience. He served as CEO of...
Inside Novelis’ 2030 strategy: Aligning scrap supply, recycling investment and new opportunities in aluminium markets
The AL Circle team caught up with Michael Hahne, Vice President Commercial, Novelis Europe, for a conversation at ALUMINIUM 2026 in Düsseldorf, Germany. With experience across the company’s automotive and beverage can businesses, Hahne brings a commercial perspective to the evolving relationship between aluminium, customer needs and circularity. In this exclusive interview, Hahne explains why aluminium’s next growth chapter will depend on more than expanding production. Securing scrap, closing material loops and turning metallurgical expertise into new customer solutions are becoming central to the industry’s competitiveness. As automotive lightweighting, battery applications and circularity reshape demand, he discusses the strategies behind Novelis’ global footprint and the challenges of...
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“The future of the global aluminium FRP is promising with many opportunities, and the building and construction sector is also experiencing an upward growth rate,” Mohamed Rafea, CEO, GARMCO
Mohamed Rafea joined GARMCO in April 2020 and has over 27 years of experience in the aluminium industry. Prior to joining GARMCO, Mohamed served as Chief Executive Officer at Riyadh Cable Group of Companies, Riyadh—Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He also worked with Midal Cables Group, headquartered in Bahrain, as Chief Executive Officer, in addition to various roles within the Production and maintenance, Purchasing, Quality, and Product Development areas. Mohamed Rafea holds an M.Sc in Engineering Business Management (MSC) from Coventry University, UK, and a B.Sc in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA. AL Circle: Can you briefly overview GARMCO's history and evolution since its establishment in 1981? What are some of the key milestones that GARMCO has achieved over...
"Aluminium is considered a strategic material for the transition to a low-carbon economy and for securing a strong and sustainable base industry." Janaina Donas Executive president of ABAL (Brazilian Aluminum Association).
Janaina has great experience in the Corporate Affairs market with a demonstrated history of working in the mining, metals, and infrastructure industries. Skilled in Public Affairs, Crisis Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, Governmental Affairs, and Crisis Communications. Strong Community and social services with an MBA focused in Business Management from Ibmec Business School. AL Circle: How has the demand for flat-rolled products evolved within the Brazilian aluminium market over the past few years? Janaina Donas: According to data from ABAL's Aluminium Statistical Yearbook (Brazilian Aluminium Association), the production of aluminium sheets has increased by 20,6% over the last 10 years, from 585 tonnes in 2014, reaching 706 tonnes last year. From a consumption perspective,...
"As producers call for defect-free aluminium flat-rolled products to meet rapidly growing global demand, ABB's innovative solutions for measuring flatness, thickness and tension hold the key to enhanced accuracy, reliability, and longevity. Our commitment to continuous development and refinement, including realizing the possibilities of digitalization, enhances real-time decision-making, reduces waste and energy consumption, and addresses the industry's skills gap,” Marko Sydänlammi, Global Product Line Manager Flatness Systems, ABB
Currently, Marko Sydänlammi serves as the Global Product Line Manager for Flatness systems at ABB Measurement & Analytics. In this pivotal role, he is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring end-to-end profitable growth and development of the flatness systems offering over the entire life cycle. This includes portfolio management, footprint analysis, and the development of a business mix strategy for the products. He has worked in product management, operations, engineering, and sales of measurement and control equipment for the battery, metals, paper, and converting industries for over 33 years. Marko holds a Master of Science degree in Mechanics and Computer Science from Linköping University, Sweden. AL Circle: The aluminium flat-rolled products industry requires precise quality...
“We have identified sustainable packaging as a potential growth market,” Adam Hunter, Deputy General Manager, Bridgnorth Aluminium
Adam Hunter joined Bridgnorth Aluminium in April 2024 as Deputy General Manager, bringing extensive expertise in cold rolled steel manufacturing across construction, automotive, industrial, and agricultural sectors. His career began as a Designer in the Aerospace industry, working with prestigious clients like Rolls-Royce and Airbus. He later specialised in designing high-precision, fast-volume production lines and gained global experience in operational excellence. With a focus on root-cause analysis and technical process development, Adam is known for his hands-on approach and ability to lead teams through complex challenges to achieve operational excellence. AL Circle: Bridgnorth Aluminium has been a leader in flat-rolled aluminium coils for over 80 years. How has the company evolved...
“By mimicking real process conditions on our pilot mill, Quaker Houghton de-risks fluid upgrades for rolling mills,” Peter De Bruyne, Global Business Director Non-Ferrous, Quaker Houghton
Peter De Bruyne, Global Business Director Non-Ferrous, is responsible for strategy development for the non-ferrous industry at Quaker Houghton. Peter was awarded a PhD in analytical chemistry before joining the aluminium industry in 1993. He gained hands-on experience as a laboratory manager and lubrication engineer in the aluminium rolling industry. In his 18 years at Quaker Houghton, Peter has worked in both technical and commercial roles before taking up his current position in 2016. AL Circle: Could you provide a brief overview of the function of rolling fluids in flat rolled aluminium production? Peter De Bruyne: During the rolling process, rolling fluids serve to lubricate, cool, and remove aluminium fines from the strip surface. For cold rolling, this is usually achieved with...
“The cosmetics industry increasingly embraces aluminium packaging, particularly for its sustainability benefits,” Dr. Ing. Catalina Fernandez, Director of CINDAL (Aludium R&D Centre).
Dr. Ing. Catalina Fernandez is the Director of CINDAL (Aludium R&D Centre). She is at the forefront of innovation in aluminium-rolled products (FRPs) and plays a pivotal role in driving sustainability initiatives at Aludium. Her background in metallurgy and materials science, along with her passion for environmental stewardship, has allowed her to combine technical expertise with a vision for a greener future for the aluminium industry. In this interview, she shares her insights into the modern world of aluminium FRPs, focusing on the importance of recyclability and third-party verification to prevent greenwashing while exploring the role of aluminium in markets such as packaging, automotive, and construction. AL Circle: Could you begin by giving us an overview of your experience and how...
“SeCoil is an investment that brings real benefits to a company involved in producing aluminium sheets”, Piotr Skarbiński, Vice President, Business Segment Aluminum Process and CAB, SECO/WARWICK
Piotr Skarbinski earned an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Zielona Góra, specialising in precision and biomedical instruments. His professional career began in 1988 with Elterma as a project engineer. He joined SECO/WARWICK in 1990 as a project engineer for atmosphere furnaces and was promoted to Atmosphere Furnace Team Leader in 1995. In addition to these responsibilities, he worked with both the Aluminum Process and Incinerator product groups. In 2000, he assumed responsibility as Director of Europe's Controlled Atmosphere Brazing (CAB) Team. He became the CAB Global Product Leader in 2006, and since 2014, he has served as a Vice President of the CAB and Aluminium Process business segment at SECO/WARWICK S.A. AL Circle: How does SECO/WARWICK's vision align with the...
“Using aluminium FRPs in railway systems contributes to a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly operation,” L C Trivedi, Railway Expert
A distinguished railway professional, L C Trivedi, with over 40 years of exemplary service, boasts a remarkable career deeply rooted in Indian Railways. With an engineering degree and management education from prestigious institutions such as HEC Paris and Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, USA, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence. A Fellow of the Institute of Mechanical Engineers in London, L C Trivedi currently holds the esteemed position of Chair of the Railway Division of India within the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE). His journey in the railways began in 1981, when he spent two formative years at NTPC, followed by a transition to Indian Railways, where he would go on to achieve remarkable feats. In June 2021, L C Trivedi retired as the...
“TAHA aims to further its contribution to Aluminium Vision 2030 by expanding the adoption of its zero-waste dross processing solutions across the industry worldwide,” Taha Pollmann, Process Manager at TAHA Resource Management GmbH
AL Circle caught up on a quick conversation with Taha Pollmann, Process Manager at TAHA Resource Management GmbH, at IBAAS-IIM 2024, held from September 25-27, 2024, where the organisation bagged the prestigious ESG Award. We are happy to share our insightful interaction where Taha Pollmann briefed us about the company’s ESG initiatives, his personal contribution to this milestone, the role of Industry 4.0 technologies in the journey, and their future plans to advance sustainability practices in consonance with Aluminium Vision 2030. To draw some key notes from our conversation, read the interview below. AL Circle: Congratulations on winning the ESG Award at IBAAS 2024. Please share with us the key initiatives your organisation has taken to uphold ESG principles. Taha Pollmann: TAHA...
“JS Group and later Uniseven have many firsts; in fact, it has grown with the growth of the primary aluminium industry in India,” Kamal Prakash, Director, Uniseven Engineering & Infrastructure
Kamal Prakash is passionate about aluminium and is the director of Uniseven Engineering & Infrastructure, part of the 124-year-old JS Group, which has been servicing the global aluminium value chain for the last 50 years. JS and Uniseven have pioneered introducing a number of technologies and technological products to the aluminium industry, helping process improvements, CAPEX and OPEX reduction, CO2 emission reduction, and enhanced recycling. Also, he is involved in the fields of education and health, especially mental health and economic and environmental sustainability initiatives, especially with an economically weakest section of society. He is also an avid gardener. He holds a degree in Business Management and brings 44 years of global experience working with partners across the...
“Asian industry is gaining traction in aluminium production due to growing demand from many industries,” Isabelle Gaudreau, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, EPIQ Machinery
Isabelle Gaudreau manages Marketing and Communication for EPIQ Machinery. She has managed all marketing-related activities since the merger between Mecfor and Advanced Dynamics. Isabelle's journey in the industry began in 2006 when she played a pivotal role in assisting the MECFOR sales team develop standards, marketing, promotional materials, and general sales activities. Her background in professional writing, creative design work, and administrative services offers a balanced mix of insights into the industry and observation of new trends and opportunities. AL Circle: What is your perspective on the current state of the Asian aluminium industry? How do you see the demand for aluminium evolving in Asia over the next decade? Isabelle Gaudreau: The Asian aluminium industry, despite facing...
“Alumina refineries and aluminium smelters are increasingly realising the need for real-time process information,” Petra Mühlen, Partner and CEO, SpectraFlow Analytics
After working for 14 years in the family business Mühlen Sohn, which manufactures technical textiles and is also used in the aluminium smelters in sales and management roles, Petra started with the newly founded SpectraFlow Analytics in 2014. She has a master’s degree in mathematics and economics, which strengthens her quick technical as well as economic understanding. Her initial focus was on sales and technical implementation of the SpectraFlow product range over various industries. In 2020, she took over the CEO role as well. AL Circle: Please describe how SpectraFlow quantifies Gibbsite or Kaolinite content in bauxite ore. Does this technology ensure enhanced quality of bauxite? Petra Mühlen: SpectraFlow uses near-infra-red (NIR) technology to perform the real-time chemical analysis...
“The Asian aluminium extrusion market is steadily growing, especially in countries and regions such as China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia.” Wang Xingyao, Founder of GLD ALLOYS (M) SDN BHD
Wang Xingyao is a seasoned veteran in the aluminium manufacturing industry with over 25 years of experience. He has successfully led several high-profile aluminium companies across Asia, producing various products including aluminium sheets, extrusions, and alloy wheels. Mr Wang’s expertise in supply chain management and operational efficiency has positioned him as a key player in the market. His leadership style is characterised by a keen focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring long-term profitability while adhering to global best practices. Mr Wang’s vision and strategic acumen have consistently delivered impressive results, making him a valuable asset to the company. AL Circle: What motivated the founding of GLD ALLOYS (M) SDN BHD in 2024, mainly focusing on...
“The opportunities in Asia are still tremendous if one compares the aluminium consumption per capita of different countries and regions,” Dr-Ing. Oliver Moos, Managing Director, CETAG – Casthouse Engineering and Technology AG
Oliver started his professional life as a mechanical draftsman at a leading supplier of casthouse equipment in 1985. He worked in various technical and commercial positions for the same company after further education at the University of Applied Sciences in Konstanz, Germany, and the University of Brasov in Romania. Oliver became the Managing Director of CETAG in 2016. With its small but dedicated workforce, CETAG provides consulting services, project management, site services, and equipment to the aluminium industry worldwide. AL Circle: Please brief us about your services and solutions to the aluminium casthouse. How do you help casthouse enhance production while reducing carbon emissions? Dr-Ing. Oliver Moos: CETAG of Switzerland is an expert adviser in aluminium casthouse technology,...
“The mining industry has seen a surge in the adoption of drone technology in recent years.” Mughilan Thiru Ramasamy, Co-founder and CEO of Skylark Drones
Mughilan holds a master’s degree in Aerospace Systems from Purdue University, Indiana (USA). Mughilan designed over 8 Un-Manned Aerial Vehicles, all of which were successfully test-flown; he led the team to win the NASA Systems Engineering Award for engineering a holistic UAV-based solution. Mughilan is also on the R.V. College of Engineering board and helps them design industry-relevant courses. He has given over 100 talks and workshops. AL Circle: Please brief us on the functionalities of Spectra and their usage in bauxite mining. Mughilan: Spectra is a worksite intelligence platform that harnesses drone data to provide actionable insights. By using drone images, Spectra generates accurate 3D models at a centimetre scale, aiding in precise planning and monitoring. It runs on the cloud,...
“Asia is the largest and most important region in terms of aluminium supply in the world,” Dr Yanchen Wang, Managing Director, SMM (Shanghai Metals Market) GLOBAL UK Ltd.
Dr Yanchen Wang is the Managing Director of the SMM UK office, which was established in May 2021. Currently, he focuses on base metals, battery metals market research, and overseas business development for SMM. Dr Yanchen Wang has a PhD in Engineering from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and is a well-known analyst in the global commodity industry. His expertise includes the base metals market, the coal and power industry, and the carbon emission market. He has recently extended his research into the battery metals markets. He has visited more than 100 base metals assets around the world. Dr Yanchen Wang has more than 19 years of commodity market research experience. He also often attends technical and market conferences and gives presentations as a keynote speaker, like AABC, Cobalt...
“The aluminium market is global, and Asia is already a key region for aluminium production and consumption,” Vincenzo ZINNI, CEO & Maël de la BELLIERE, Co-Head of Sales and Marketing, Niche Fusina
Vincenzo ZINNI, Chief Executive Officer, joined Fusina in 2022 when Dada Holding and Invitalia acquired the plant. With a background in metal trading, he manages the group and drives the team to excellence, quality, and reliability. Under his management and focus, the plant is on track to regain its position in the marketplace. This is the result of a series of new investments and production improvements. Fusina, under its new leadership and ownership, has been able to be considered as one of the best suppliers for marine, road transportation, silos or defence applications. Maël de la BELLIERE, Co-Head of Sales and Marketing, joined Fusina in 2017. With a background in flat-rolled products at Alcoa and in the coil coating industry with Euramax, he is steering the development of markets...
“Aluminium has become the metal of choice for sunrise sectors,” John Slaven, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium
John Slaven is the Chief Executive Officer of Vedanta Aluminium, India's largest producer of aluminium and among the top producers globally. He is a reputed leader in the industry with over three decades of rich experience in the metals, mining and modern manufacturing industries. Through diverse positions in industry-leading companies within these sectors, John has helped shape the overall domain in transformative ways. He previously held key leadership positions at Alcoa, BHP, and The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in roles across the industry value chain from exploration, development, operations, strategy, finance, and sales & marketing. Over the years, he has lived and worked in countries across the globe, including South Africa, the USA, China, Singapore, the Netherlands, Australia,...
