Rusal develops a new aluminium alloy for anodising at Bratsk Aluminium Smelter

The Russian aluminium giant, Rusal has developed an optimised 5xxx series aluminium alloy for further anodising and commenced its production at the Bratsk Aluminium Smelter (BrAZ).

The Technical Directorate of Rusal masterminded a general assessment of the alloy and organised its mass production. Moreover, the production of optimised 5005A alloy slabs will be launched, used by rolling mills to anodise coils and sheets.

Presently, these products are only available to import, while the production of the new alloy in industrial volumes will provide Russian consumers with the 5xxx series, facilitating the development of high-processed products including facing panels, spotlights, and electrolytic capacitors.

However, the domestic market demand for the 5xxx series alloy is estimated to be around 50 thousand tonnes.

Roman Andryushin, the Deputy General Director of RUSAL for sales in Russia, the CIS and China said, “The development of value-added products such as 5005A alloy slabs aligns with RUSAL’s strategy for developing the domestic market, ensuring a stable competitive position for facade panel manufacturers using domestic products and replacing imported ones. The production of the new alloy will allow RUSAL to reduce delivery times to the consumer, reducing the cost of the final product.”

The gratitude is towards the anodisation of alloys, as the final product is covered with a protective oxide film, which is second only to diamond in terms of hardness. Furthermore, anodising technology enhances the corrosion resistance of products, improving their aesthetic appearance and increasing their service life.

Rusal’s pricing policy is also hailed and the conclusion of long-term contracts with suppliers within the domestic market, high-tech aluminium products used in the construction industry, facade and products previously only available through importation have now been introduced, which comprise pipes, lighting poles, noise barriers, helipads, and cables amongst other products.