Beyond aluminium smelting capacity, we propose to incentivise emissions cuts to support wider decarbonisation: Ed Boyd, Mission Possible Partnership
As the European Council seeks political alignment on the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA), the debate over how to accelerate aluminium decarbonisation in bringing emissions accounting and demand for low-carbon metal into focus. Against the backdrop of Mission Possible Partnership’s (MPP) open letter, AL Circle speaks with Ed Boyd, MPP’s Global Policy Lead, about the policies needed to support the European aluminium industry’s transition. Boyd argues that effective decarbonisation must account for emissions from alumina refining and track Scope 2 emissions associated with purchased electricity. On mandatory green procurement and lead-market thresholds of at least 50 per cent for aluminium, he says producers are ready to supply low-carbon metal at scale and considers the proposed threshold...
EU-India FTA, CBAM and carbon costs: Can Indian aluminium crack the European market?
A former Deputy Secretary General of the European Parliament and Director of the EPP Group, Paolo Licandro, has extensive experience in European policymaking, international relations, industry, energy and EU affairs. He is currently the Founder and CEO of eEuropa Belgium and Editor of eEuropa.Blog. He has worked with European prime ministers, ministers and EU commissioners and has held senior roles covering EU enlargement, Mediterranean and Middle East relations, and industry, research and energy. A nuclear engineer, he holds a master’s degree from Politecnico di Milano and has worked with ENI, ARS-Pragma and the EU Joint Research Centre. In this interview, Paolo Licandro shares his perspective on EU–India aluminium trade, CBAM and the opportunities for Indian producers in Europe. AL...
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With the new circular economy trend, we trust there is room to increase recycling within a primary and secondary aluminium producer ecosystem - EPIQ Machinery
AL Circle : What kind of solutions do you provide for aluminium casthouse handling systems and casting lines? Can you please share a case study where your solution has significantly benefited a casthouse in material handling? EPIQ Machinery : Under the BROCHOT brand, EPIQ has produced fully automated aluminium Foundry Ingot Stack Handling Systems. These systems considerably reduce the route of mobile equipment and, proportionally, the co-activity in this often-congested sector. It also avoids stopping the production line if there is a delay or failure in removing the ingots’ piles from the conveyor. The Foundry Ingot Stack Handling Systems are designed to handle foundry ingots from the casting to the discharge conveyor and onto the packaging area. The bundles are then handled by forklifts...
“Inductotherm's induction melting systems for aluminium casting boast IIoT readiness, facilitating real-time data access for process control,” Ed Chmielecki, Sales Manager Light Metal Applications – Inductotherm Corp.
Ed has 21 years in the metalcasting industry, primarily in non-ferrous metal. He has been with Inductotherm Corp. since September 2019 as Sales Manager for Light Metal Applications and District Manager covering the South-Central US. Before joining Inductotherm, Ed was a Regional Sales Manager for a Crucible Company, and prior to that was a Furnace Services Engineer covering North America, installing and servicing Electric Resistance and Gas Fired Crucible furnaces. At Inductotherm, he now uses his years of experience to show customers the benefits of using induction melting to reduce their carbon footprint while producing cleaner molten aluminium more efficiently. Inductotherm is the leading manufacturer of induction metal melting systems for metal producers today. We design and...
“Visiometa’s goal is nothing less than to drive the evolution of the foundry industry through innovation and rethinking,” Dr Ralf Gerke-Cantow, Managing Director of Visiometa
A seasoned management professional, Dr Ralf Gerke-Cantow, the Managing Director of Visiometa GmbH, has a rich background in foundry engineering, specialising in investment casting of aluminium and titanium. With 19 years of hands-on experience in the industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role at Visiometa GmbH. Ralf began his journey by studying foundry technology at the Gießen-Friedberg University of Applied Sciences, laying a solid foundation for his career. Throughout his professional life, he has excelled in various capacities, including customer advisory and calculation, research and development, and management of titanium production involving several hundred employees. His dedication to continuous improvement is evident through his pursuit of a PhD at TU...
“Our commitment is to serve our customers by delivering optimal technological solutions tailored to their specific needs within our areas of expertise,” Associated Industrial Furnaces (P) Ltd. (AIFL)
Headquartered in Kolkata, Associated Industrial Furnaces (P) Ltd. (AIFL) operates from its central project office, strategically extending its presence nationwide through a robust network of regional and branch offices. Complemented by dedicated representatives strategically positioned in major metropolitan areas and key locations across India, AIFL ensures comprehensive coverage and accessibility throughout the country. AL Circle: Can you provide an overview of your company's history and role in the aluminium casthouse equipment sector? AIFL: Since its inception in 1988, Associated Industrial Furnaces (P) Ltd. (AIFL) has emerged as India's foremost furnace and ancillary equipment manufacturer, catering to both ferrous and non-ferrous industries. Bolstered by the technological expertise...
"Atomic13 is focused on commercialising its ShAPE technology that manufactures high-quality aluminium extrusions from 100% post-consumer scrap, thereby reducing embodied carbon by 80-90%," Eric Donsky, Innovator, Chairman & CEO of Atomic13
Eric Donsky is a serial deep tech entrepreneur, having founded the first industrial synthetic biology and bio-based chemical company, which was spun out of 4 national labs funded by the U.S. DoE, including PNNL. This company went public on the NYSE at a $1B+ valuation. His latest venture, Atomic13, focuses on upcycling aluminium scrap into high-value aluminium extruded parts for the building and construction industry. The DoE has developed a highly novel solid-phase process technology that converts 100% post-consumer aluminium scrap into extruded parts that meet or exceed the ASTM standards on structural specifications for various aluminium alloys, including 6061 and 6063. AL Circle: Give our readers a brief introduction about yourself and your startup, Atomic13. Eric Donsky : I am a...
“Many foundries are ‘Hidden Champions,’ which are not visible to potential customers but perform well. SUpplyDU.com want to give these companies a stage and the possibility of being easily recognized by relevant buyers,” SUpplyDU.com
With over two decades of dedicated experience in the casting and automotive sectors, Kai Maier has assumed various management positions, leveraging his expertise in casting and market dynamics. Currently serving as the Co-Founder and General Manager for Europe at SupplyDu.com, he is pivotal in steering the company's strategic direction and operational excellence within the region. Maier's profound industry knowledge and leadership have driven growth and innovation in the automotive and casting domains. Matthias Bressau brings extensive leadership experience in materials management and operations across various European and Asian industries. With a proven track record, he assumes the role of Co-Founder and General Manager for the Asia Pacific region. As an industry expert and a specialist...
“The role of aluminium-ion battery technology in the design of the transparent battery lies in addressing the challenges associated with colour indicator energy storage, particularly in applications such as energy-efficient buildings and wearable devices,” Dr Ashutosh Kumar Singh, Scientist, Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Science (CeNS)
Dr Ashutosh Kumar Singh is a materials scientist specialising in synthesising and designing nanomaterials for applications like energy conversion, storage, sensors, and optoelectronics. He excels in translating research into practical prototypes and large-scale devices, with a strong track record in collaborating with industries and government sectors. With a B.Sc. from Hindu College, Delhi University, and an Integrated MSc-PhD from S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata, he has extensive experience, including postdoctoral research and roles in academia and industry. Dr Singh's research focuses on functional nanomaterials, smart coatings, transparent electrodes, and energy-related technologies. He prioritises affordability and enhanced energy efficiency in his projects and...
“The expansion of primary aluminium production in the Gulf indeed leads to increased customer demand towards Fives for machinery and equipment with advanced automation and control systems,” Frédéric Pereira, Services Development Manager, Aluminium Division, Fives.
Frédéric Pereira is a seasoned professional with over 13 years of dedicated service at Fives ECL, where he currently holds the esteemed position of Services Development Manager for the Aluminium division. With a robust background in production engineering complemented by a Master of Business Administration, Frédéric brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. Throughout his career, Frédéric has demonstrated a strong aptitude for project management, particularly within the machine design industry. His tenure as a Project Manager equipped him with invaluable skills in overseeing complex projects from conception to execution, ensuring efficiency and excellence at every step. AL Circle: How do you foresee the growth of the aluminium industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)...
“The potential increase in the primary aluminium production in the Middle East and the slowing of European output can be offset by the additional capacity from the Middle East,” Bruce Wilson, Director – Aluminium Division at REEL
Bruce Wilson is a successful engineering professional with over 25 years of experience in the primary aluminium industry. A graduate in mechanical engineering and business administration with certification in project management. His experience working for world-class companies has given him strong business acumen. He has excellent leadership qualities and can mentor and motivate individuals and create high-performance teams. A strong track record in the successful execution of multi-disciplined projects with high standards in technical, contractual, and managerial roles in green-field and brown-field primary aluminium smelter projects. Bruce currently leads an energetic, innovative, and dynamic team as the Director of the Aluminium Division for REEL INTERNATIONAL. AL Circle: What is REEL...
“It is not difficult to follow the arguments and the goals for decarbonisation and sustainability. There are big questions about how to get there, ” Dr Thomas Niehoff, founder of combustion POTENTIAL GmbH in Germany
Dr Thomas Niehoff studied mechanical engineering at the technical university RWTH Aachen (Germany) and later made his PhD thesis at the IEHK in Aachen. Dr. Thomas Niehoff has worked for over 30 years in the industrial gas industry. He managed an R&D department in an executive position an R&D department and projects for metallurgical gas applications there. EH&S has always been the highest priority in his work area. He combines decades of experience with expertise in R&D management and melting and combustion technology. Dr. Thomas Niehoff is an inventor or co-inventor of 14 patents. He is the founder and owner of combustion POTENTIAL GmbH in Germany. AL Circle: What is you background in this industry? Dr. Thomas Niehoff : I have worked my entire professional career as a combustion...
“The aluminium industry in the Gulf is constantly evolving, and it will remain a prominent centre for aluminium production outside of China,” Mahmood Daylami, Secretary General, Gulf Aluminium Council.
Mahmood Daylami is the Secretary General of the Gulf Aluminium Council (GAC) and former Deputy Chief Executive at ALBA. He has been associated with the aluminium business for over forty years. Additionally, he is the author of the book 'Understanding Cultural Diversity in the Gulf: A Management Perspective. AL Circle: As we are nearing the end of 2023 - we would like to know how the aluminium industry did in the GCC this year - some key trends emerging? Mahmood Daylami: Despite market uncertainty due to the war in Europe, GCC smelters maintained full-capacity production in 2023, with a collective output expected to exceed 2022. The key focus area is developing carbon emission reduction strategies; some have moved to implementation, refarming GCC producers' commitment to long-term carbon...
“KAN-NAK will continue supporting smelters in decreasing energy consumption by reducing the cell voltage and improving the cell magnetohydrodynamic status,” René von Kaenel, CEO and President, KAN-NAK
René von Kaenel received his diploma as a physicist from The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) before working for International Computer Limited in London and specialising in computer science. In 1981, he joined Alusuisse and became the head of the modelling activities for smelting technology. In 2000, he received the title of Electrolysis director in the ALCAN organisation and supervised ALCAN’s R&D activities for the Hall-Héroult process. Since 1981, he has participated in many smelter modernisation projects worldwide, leading to large productivity increases and significant energy savings. He has published many articles on electrolysis cells, casting processes and inert anode technology. In 2004, he created KAN-NAK Ltd., a specialised company for the optimisation of...
“The integration of digital and physical systems will keep advancing, bringing them closer together. Heavy industries, mining, and minerals are already experiencing benefits from exponential technologies like AI,” Dr Saptarshi Das
Dr Saptarshi Das is a firm believer that sustainability and profitability can be achieved simultaneously. To this end, he has focused his activities and investments on clean technology and affordable education. He heads the global Decision Science division of the energy major Shell. He has extensive knowledge of the technology and economics of energy systems, ranging from the molecular to the geopolitical level. Earlier in his career, he worked with Morgan Stanley and Siemens. Saptarshi has a strong technical background. He holds a Master's degree in Applied Statistics and Informatics from IIT Bombay and earned his PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Vienna. He has numerous patents and publications in top journals to his credit. AL Circle: We are witnessing the increasingly...
“The vision of RODABELL is to be a leader in manufacturing and maintaining casting equipment for the aluminium industry in the Middle East,” Alejandro Rellan, Managing Partner of RODABELL
Alejandro Rellan is the second generation in the family business. He joined Rodabell in 2011 to focus on foreign sales and business relations. Alex holds a University degree in electrical engineering along with an MBA in Business Administration. He started his professional career working in several engineering positions in the renewable energy sector both in Spain and the USA. After several years of boosting the organization’s international sales strategy, he is currently acting as CEO. AL Circle: Can you briefly overview RODABELL's history, mission, and core values? Alejandro Rellan: Rodabell was established in 1980 on the northwest coast of Spain when primary aluminium production was at a high level. Spain used to be one of the leading primary producers in the EU, with over 550,000...
“In the context of safety training, for instance, gamification can simulate hazardous scenarios, allowing employees to make decisions and respond to emergencies in a risk-free virtual environment,” Arijit Bhattacharyya, an entrepreneur, consultant, speaker, and mentor
Arijit Bhattacharyya is an accomplished entrepreneur, consultant, speaker, and mentor who has made a significant impact in the Global startup ecosystem related to finance and digital banking. Being an international record holder in technology and finance, he writes books on entrepreneurship and VC funding and mentors budding entrepreneurs to start their ventures. He has mentored around 6,000 startups across 90+ countries. He is a founder of several initiatives and organisations, such as Virtualinfocom, India’s one of the first game development, VR AR, Hologram, Blockchain, AI ML, Fintech & Blockchain solution Deeptech solution company. He is also a founder of World Leader Summit, Entrepreneursface, and CoInnovateVentures. World Leader Summit is the world’s largest leadership summit and...
“We understand that each country within the MENA region has its unique characteristics, challenges, and opportunities. Therefore, we will tailor our offerings to meet the specific needs of each market we operate in,” EPIQ Machinery
We are honoured to have the participation of three stalwarts from EPIQ Machinery in our e-Magazine - "Aluminium Middle East: Focus 2024". Vivek Kumar, Regional Director, Middle East and North Africa Region; Yannick Beaulé, Chief Revenue Officer; and Naji Elabiad, Chief Operation Officer. Mr. Kumar manages EPIQ Machinery activities in the MENA region and will be in charge of the new office in Bahrain. Mr. Beaulé, as a Chief Revenue Officer, works to define EPIQ Machinery growth plan and oversees its implementation. He will participate in mergers and acquisitions as well as partnerships. Mr. Elabiad, as a CEO, manages overall operations at EPIQ's locations. He makes sure that EPIQ delivers advanced technology on time, every time. AL Circle: How has your equipment helped aluminium companies...
“We already have an MOU with MA’ADEN to deploy this technology at their alumina refinery and expect to attract more aluminium producers as we build capacity,” Rod MacGregor, CEO and Founder of GlassPoint
Rod is the founder and CEO of GlassPoint. Under his leadership, GlassPoint has created the only solution proven at scale to reduce carbon emissions from industrial process heat and has built more than half of global industrial solar steam capacity. He is committed to helping industrial leaders across the mining and the aluminium industries—as well as many other industries—cost-effectively decarbonize to meet pressing net-zero commitments. For more than three decades, Rod has led global companies across the United States, Europe, China, and the Middle East. Rod’s companies have partnered with various multinational corporations in the energy and technology industries, including Royal Dutch Shell, AT&T, Intel, and Volkswagen. His first company received the Queen of England’s Award for...
“ALUPCO's reputation for quality has made it the sole aluminium supplier for numerous iconic projects, both locally and internationally, further stamping authority as a leader in the sector,” Abdulaziz AlGhamdi, General Manager, ALUPCO
Abdulaziz AlGhamdi is a seasoned leadership expert in the field of industrial management and manufacturing with 25+ years of experience leading local and international businesses in the Middle East. He graduated from the University of the Pacific, Stockton, California, with a degree in Electrical Engineering and obtained a postgraduate degree in Business Administration at the University of Wales. Worked with international companies such as P&G and was the operation manager of PepsiCo in Saudi Arabia. Joined ALUPCO in 2003, as the plant manager of its Dammam Plant and was later the supply chain director of the company. Took a leadership role in other Saudi companies between 2015-2023 where he rejoined ALUPCO as the General Manager of its aluminium extrusion industry and an executive board...
