Rio Tinto launches 1.1 km Alumina conveyor at Kitmat smelter

Rio Tinto has started a new alumina conveyor system at its BC Works smelter in Kitimat, Canada.

The 1.1-kilometre conveyor will move about 800,000 tonnes of alumina each year, helping ensure a steady supply of this key raw material for aluminium production.

The system is designed to run for 50 years and replace older infrastructure that has been in use since the 1960s.

For the global aluminium value-chain 2026 outlook, book our exclusive report “Global ALuminium Industry Outlook 2026"

The new setup also improves environmental performance. It uses a sealed pipe design, which helps reduce dust and material loss. The company said this has cut particulate emissions by about 40 per cent. The design also reduces transfer points and uses dust collection systems.

Also read: Runaya reports progress on India’s first gas-atomised aluminium powder JV with Eckart

The conveyor makes operations easier to manage. Any alumina that is recovered during transport can be reused in the production process, improving efficiency.

A launch event was held in Kitimat with employees, project partners, and local officials to mark the start of the system.

Don't miss out- Buyers are looking for your products on our B2B platform

According to Rio Tinto BC Works General Manager, Simon Pasco, “The new alumina conveyor strengthens a critical part of our smelter and is built to support reliable performance for decades to come.” He also added, “"It is also a testament to the expertise, rigour and commitment of the teams who delivered this complex project safely and successfully.” 

The company has been operating in Kitimat for more than 70 years.