Noranda Alumina reports strongest six-month production figure in over three years

Noranda Alumina, a subsidiary of New Day Aluminum Holdings, has reported the strongest production figure in over three years for the last six months. Despite numerous challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, depressed market conditions, and historically active hurricane season, the refinery successfully produced 590,000 tonnes (approx.) of alumina in the second half of 2020, equating to an annual output of 1.18 million tonnes.

In addition, Noranda Alumina achieved no recordable injury during the production in more than last six months, marking the year 2020 as the second safest one in 35 years on a Total Recordable Incident Rate (“TRIR”) basis.

“The improved results in such a challenging environment are a testament to the strategy executed and investment made by the New Day ownership team, as well as the improved safety environment, process controls and productivity initiatives implemented by Joe Pampinto and the extended team in Gramercy,” said John Habisreitinger, Chief Operating Officer for New Day.

New Day Aluminum Holdings acquired Noranda Alumina in October 2016 by investing over $130 million in strategic initiatives, including hardening the powerhouse and operating assets, expanding product mix capabilities, and reducing the refinery’s environmental footprint.

“Our focus on long-term sustainability through investment in conjunction with refined processes and systems is paying dividends as we have seen a marked improvement in safety, process control and reliability across the refinery,” said Mr. Pampinto, Vice President and General Manager of Noranda Alumina.