Every process can be captured within the framework of computational modelling, provided the process parameters are measured with accuracy in the manufacturing of primary aluminium. Since the production of primary aluminium is an energy guzzler and emitter of large quantities of CO2, even a small savings in energy consumption can lead to savings in CO2 […]
Climate imperatives, resource efficiency, and industrial resilience have positioned secondary aluminium as a critical player in reshaping the global metals landscape. Among the standout performers, China’s meteoric rise in secondary aluminium production serves as both a case study in policy-driven transformation and a harbinger of how circularity can redefine traditional heavy industries. China: Leading the […]
“Just GO for it. Try something NEW.” But the moment you do, the questions begin: “So… how long have you been doing this?” That’s the paradox. You’re encouraged to explore but expected to already be an EXPERT when you arrive. Whether it’s entering a new business field, exploring a global market, or launching a product […]
In this episode of Hedging with Jorge, we revisit the concept of short hedging and dive into a more flexible risk management tool: put options. Jorge uses a simple and relatable analogy, car insurance, to help us understand how a put option works when you’re dealing with aluminium price volatility. Let’s begin with a refresher. […]
The aluminium industry as a whole is facing a lot of ups and downs shaped by geopolitics, trade imbalances, and supply chain uncertainties. To begin with, Russia is rapidly increasing its aluminium exports to China owing to the Western sanctions being implemented in 2024. Over the past few years, Russia has significantly increased its aluminium […]
Aluminium is a popular choice for manufacturers for a variety of reasons. When appropriately allowed and tempered, it’s stronger than some steels. Tensile strength as high as 80,000-90,000 psi is possible. Yet, the end product is lighter and often stiffer than some steel parts. It’s also corrosion-resistant and not impacted by extreme cold temperatures, unlike […]
In this insightful episode of Hedging with Jorge, we explore a real-world example from the aluminium trade, an example that highlights the subtle yet powerful role of premiums and hedging strategies when prices rise. Jorge walks us through a familiar trading scenario: you’ve already purchased aluminium at $2,500 per tonne, inclusive of a physical market […]
I had an idea: Assemble a team of AI/ML interns—mentored by an industry veteran—to address the operational headaches of extrusion plants. To validate the concept, I discussed it with the owner of a regional facility. He didn’t lead with the usual grievances—volatile metal prices, rising energy bills, tariff wars, heavy subsidies for low-cost competitors or […]
This week the Indian aluminium industry has been under the spotlight for various reasons. To begin with Indian conglomerate Vedanta Aluminium has embarked on a new project worth INR 1,28 lakh crore (US$ 15.42 billion) to boost Odisha’s economy. The company is planning to set up a 3 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) aluminium smelter […]
Since the 1980s, the United States has experienced a staggering collapse in its primary aluminium production. From nearly 4.6 million tonnes at its peak, output has dropped by more than 80%, with just under 900,000 tonnes produced in recent years. Once a powerhouse of aluminium smelting, the US now relies heavily on imports, primarily from […]