In a significant testament to a robust and trusted partnership, representative of the owning family of AluKönigStahl recently paid a visit to the state-of-the-art factory of HELTI CONSTRUCTION. This visit underscores not only the strong existing relationship between the two companies but also signals unwavering support for HELTI CONSTRUCTION’s current and future endeavors.

Founded in 1994, HELTI CONSTRUCTION has established itself as a leading force in the production and assembly of structural glass facades and high-quality aluminum doors and windows. Over nearly three decades, the company has cultivated extensive and consolidated experience, adeptly integrating the latest market advancements in a sector that is increasingly globalized. Their commitment to embracing innovation and adopting cutting-edge technologies has been a cornerstone of their success.

The timing of this visit is particularly noteworthy, following closely on the heels of a comprehensive training session conducted at the HELTI CONSTRUCTION factory by representatives from AluKönigStahl. This recent training focused on Schüco‘s new systems and innovations, technologies that HELTI CONSTRUCTION seamlessly implements in the high-quality projects they undertake. From residential villas and tourist villages to restoration projects and commercial facilities, HELTI CONSTRUCTION’s products are synonymous with architectural excellence and technical precision.

HELTI CONSTRUCTION’s commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of their operation. They utilize premium raw materials, high-quality processing, European-certified profiles from trusted partners like AluKönigStahl the exclusive representatives of SCHÜCO. Their finished products, including doors and windows constructed with thermal duralumin profiles, PVC, and aluminum-wood connections, exhibit exceptional parameters in terms of durability, acoustic insulation, and thermal performance. Meeting stringent European norms and standards for water and wind impermeability, their products consistently exceed architectural requirements.

Beyond profile work, HELTI CONSTRUCTION possesses extensive experience in producing a wide range of glass applications, from structural glass facades and shower cabins to sophisticated security glass solutions for environments like jewelry stores. Their dedication to quality extends to their glass chambers, utilizing double and triple glazing with inert gas and warm edge technology for optimal insulation. The company further ensures superior results by importing highly specific glass types, dimensions, and compositions, complemented by certified stainless steel accessories and specialized mechanisms from leading European suppliers such as ‘maco’, “Rotto”, “GU”, “GIESSE”, and “Siegenia srl”.

The visit by the representative of AluKönigStahl serves as a powerful symbol of confidence in HELTI CONSTRUCTION’s capabilities and future potential. With a presence felt not only throughout Albania but also Internationally. This show of support from a key partner like AluKönigStahl reinforces the strength of their collaboration and paves the way for continued success in delivering high-quality, innovative building envelope solutions to clients worldwide. HELTI CONSTRUCTION’s unwavering dedication to quality and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of their operations, guaranteeing the fulfillment of requirements and the achievement of the highest performance parameters.

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A confluence of factors, most notably escalated tariff tensions, persistent supply chain disruptions, and evolving global trade dynamics, are fueling this dramatic price surge. Understanding these forces is crucial for businesses that rely on aluminum and are seeking to mitigate potential impacts.

Tariffs, Tensions, and Tonnage: A Triad Driving Up Costs

The pressure on US aluminum prices is being driven by a potent combination of external pressures. The most immediate factor is the recent imposition of additional tariffs on aluminum imports from the European Union and the United Kingdom. Effective April 9, 2025, these new levies – a 20% tariff on EU-origin goods and 10% on UK imports – build upon the pre-existing 25% Section 232 duty from 2018. For EU producers, the effective tariff rate now sits at a staggering 45%, creating significant disincentives for transatlantic trade.

This tariff pressure has had an immediate and measurable impact on the Midwest Premium, the benchmark regional surcharge that incorporates transportation, handling, and tariffs. According to recent data from Reuters and CME Group, the Midwest Premium has spiked to over 33 cents per pound, a level not seen since the trade war years of 2018-2019. This represents a near-doubling of the average of 17-18 cents recorded in early 2023, highlighting the rapid and substantial impact of the tariff increases.

Beyond tariffs, escalating tensions in the Middle East are further compounding supply chain challenges. Forced rerouting of commercial ships via the Cape of Good Hope, necessitated by these tensions, is significantly extending transit times. Voyages from the Persian Gulf to the US East Coast are now 40% longer, while Asia-to-US East Coast routes are experiencing a 30% increase. While container shipping rates have moderated from their 2021 peaks, policy uncertainty and ongoing capacity constraints at North American ports remain significant risks. Industry experts are rightly concerned that volatile trade policies could trigger another surge in freight costs, further exacerbating the situation.

China’s Opportunity in a Divided Market

While facing its own set of US tariffs and quotas, the current US-EU trade friction presents strategic opportunities for China. Chinese aluminum, particularly from Rusal-backed ventures and state-owned enterprises like Chinalco, is increasingly being redirected towards alternative markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This shift highlights the interconnectedness of the global aluminum market and the potential for regional disruptions to have far-reaching consequences.

Looking Ahead: Navigating Uncertainty

The US aluminum market is facing a period of heightened volatility and uncertainty. Businesses that rely on aluminum should closely monitor these developments and proactively explore strategies to mitigate potential impacts. This includes diversifying sourcing options, carefully managing inventory levels, and engaging in thorough risk assessments. As the global trade landscape continues to evolve, adaptability and strategic foresight will be crucial for navigating this challenging environment.

Source: GlassBalkan

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It has been developed and produced for the European automotive market.

The pilot material is suitable for car body outer skin applications and meets requirements for surface quality and formability.

The aluminium scrap for the 100% recycled automotive aluminium coil was sourced through the Automotive Circularity Platform (ACP), which was initiated with thyssenkrupp Materials Services.

As an open platform, ACP aims to streamline access to high-quality end-of-life material for recycling by digitalising the market for secondary materials, enhance supply chain efficiency, and maximise material recovery from vehicles at the end of the consumer-use cycle.

Michael Hahne, Vice President and General Manager, Automotive, Novelis Europe, said: “Automotive customers are constantly looking for ways to to decarbonise their products while keeping them light, safe and affordable.

“Producing aluminium from 100% end-of-life vehicle scrap is not only a testament to our dedication to a circular future for aluminium and enhancing the supply of the critical material.

“It also is a groundbreaking achievement showcasing the potential for significant environmental benefits and the ability to meet the high-performance demands of modern automotive production.”

Novelis is now working to expand the adoption of this technology to enable automakers to incorporate higher recycled content into future vehicle designs.

By increasing industry participation and enhancing the supply chain for end-of-life aluminium scrap, Novelis aims to accelerate the transition to a more circular automotive sector.

Novelis currently supplies carmakers with products made of up to 85% recycled content, made possible through collaboration with customers, closed loop recycling systems for post-production scrap, and collaboration with major suppliers of recyclable materials.

Source: Novelis with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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Donald Trump said he will announce 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the US that would affect “everybody’.

Charles Johnson, president & CEO of the Aluminum Association, issued the following statement:

“We appreciate President Trump’s continued focus on strong trade actions to support the aluminum industry in the United States. During his first term the president was early to recognise the genuine threat that non-market actors pose to U.S. manufacturing industries like ours. These actions helped lead to more than $10 billion in industry investment since 2016. In order for these investments to be successful and for American firms to make the cars, trucks, beverage cans, fighter jets, body armor and more that our industry provides, we need ready and affordable access to metal. Today, there is not enough smelting capacity in the United States to supply the growing aluminum industry with the input materials it needs.

To ensure that American aluminum wins the future, President Trump should secure access to the aluminum metal supply needed for American manufacturers, while continuing to take every possible action at the U.S. border against unfairly traded aluminum from China and elsewhere. This is consistent with action his administration wisely took during his first term and we are confident he will take again.”

Jean Simard, President and CEO of the Aluminium Association of Canada.

“We are disappointed, but we were expecting this and are ready for it”

“This situation will unfortunately impact workers and consumers in America with the immediate increase on the price of aluminium.”

Paul Voss, Director General, European Aluminium:

“We need to see the detail in writing before we can provide an official reaction. Slightly less officially, it seems to me on the face of it that this would be an unfortunate and unhelpful move that wouldn’t help anybody on either side of the Atlantic with anything.

Until we get more clarity, I can only say that we are busy talking with as many relevant people/institutions as we can to better understand the situation and reflect together on how to move forward.”

Nadine Bloxsome, CEO of Aluminium Federation (ALFED) commented:

“The UK Government appears to be downplaying the impact of these tariffs… The reality is that this move would not only increase costs for UK aluminium exporters but also destabilise supply chains, force businesses to seek alternative markets, and create trade distortions that could flood the UK with low-cost aluminium imports from countries redirected out of the US market.

“This is not just a trade issue, it’s an economic and industrial concern… Without robust trade protections and policy interventions, we risk falling behind in an increasingly protectionist global market.”

She disclosed that ALFED is engaging with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) to push for greater recognition of these risks, but called for the industry to voice their opinions.

Source: Zahra Awan with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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This strategic initiative, currently being evaluated in Reduction Lines 4, 5, and 6, showcases Alba’s proactive approach to minimizing its environmental impact and embracing cutting-edge, sustainable technologies within its core operations.

The AlF3 feeding vehicle, supplied by Techmo Car S.p.A., represents a significant departure from traditional combustion-engine vehicles commonly used in this process. The potential benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles in this critical area of aluminium production are multifaceted, ranging from reduced greenhouse gas emissions to improved worker safety and reduced noise pollution.

Strategic Evaluation for a Sustainable Future:

The pilot program is designed to rigorously assess the viability and effectiveness of the electric AlF3 feeding vehicle in a real-world operating environment. Alba’s team of engineers and sustainability experts will meticulously analyze a wide range of data and performance metrics during the trial period. This comprehensive evaluation will encompass key performance indicators (KPIs) such as:

Battery Performance and Range: Assessing the vehicle’s operational range on a single charge, its charging time, and the overall lifecycle of the battery packs. Understanding these factors is critical for determining the long-term feasibility and economic viability of a fleet-wide deployment.
Operational Efficiency: Comparing the electric vehicle’s efficiency in terms of AlF3 distribution, cycle times, and overall productivity against traditional vehicles. This will determine whether the electric vehicle can maintain or improve upon existing performance levels.
Maintenance and Reliability: Tracking maintenance requirements, downtime, and overall reliability of the electric vehicle. Understanding these aspects will provide insights into the long-term operational costs and potential challenges associated with electric vehicle adoption.
Emissions Reduction: Quantifying the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions achieved by using the electric vehicle compared to its combustion-engine counterpart. This data will provide a clear indication of the environmental benefits and contribute to Alba’s overall sustainability goals.
Cost Analysis: Conducting a comprehensive cost analysis, including capital expenditure, operating costs, and maintenance expenses, to determine the economic feasibility of transitioning to electric AlF3 feeding vehicles on a larger scale.
Worker Safety and Ergonomics: Evaluating the impact of the electric vehicle on worker safety and ergonomics, focusing on factors such as noise levels, vibration, and ease of operation. Electric vehicles typically offer quieter operation and reduced vibration, contributing to a safer and more comfortable working environment.

Alba’s Vision for a Greener Future:

Commenting on this pivotal initiative, Alba’s Chief Executive Officer, Ali Al Baqali, emphasized the company’s unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship. “This initiative to explore electric AlF3 feeding vehicles within our reduction lines represents a proactive and decisive step towards minimising our environmental footprint,” he stated. “We are optimistic about the positive outcomes of this trial, confident that it will further cement our commitment to sustainable practices. Every action, no matter how small, contributes significantly to a more sustainable future.”

Mr. Al Baqali’s statement underscores Alba’s strategic approach to sustainability, recognizing that incremental improvements across various operational areas can collectively contribute to a significant reduction in the company’s overall environmental impact. The pilot program for electric AlF3 feeding vehicles exemplifies this commitment to continuous improvement and the pursuit of innovative solutions that promote a more sustainable future for the aluminium industry.

A Collaborative Partnership for Innovation:

This pioneering endeavor is further strengthened by the collaborative partnership between Alba and Techmo Car S.p.A. Massimo Zannini, the Managing Director of Techmo Car S.p.A., highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating: “Alba is a longstanding customer of Techmo Car S.p.A. and we are honoured to continue this partnership through this pioneering endeavour. This collaboration demonstrates our shared commitment to advancing sustainable technologies within the aluminium industry.”

The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration between industry leaders and technology providers in driving innovation and promoting sustainable practices. Techmo Car S.p.A.’s expertise in developing specialized electric vehicles, combined with Alba’s operational experience and commitment to sustainability, creates a powerful synergy that can accelerate the adoption of electric vehicle technology within the aluminium industry.

Looking Ahead: Potential for a Fleet-Wide Transformation:

The data and insights gathered from this pilot program will be instrumental in informing Alba’s decision on a potential fleet-wide adoption of electric AlF3 feeding vehicles. A successful trial could pave the way for a significant transformation in Alba’s operations, leading to:

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Replacing combustion-engine vehicles with electric alternatives will substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to Alba’s carbon footprint reduction targets and supporting global efforts to combat climate change.
Improved Air Quality: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, leading to improved air quality within the smelter and surrounding communities. This contributes to a healthier and safer working environment for Alba’s employees and residents.
Reduced Noise Pollution: Electric vehicles operate much more quietly than combustion-engine vehicles, reducing noise pollution within the smelter and improving the overall working environment.
Enhanced Sustainability Profile: The adoption of electric AlF3 feeding vehicles will enhance Alba’s sustainability profile, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility and attracting investors and customers who prioritize sustainable practices.

Alba’s pilot program for electric AlF3 feeding vehicles represents a bold and strategic step towards a more sustainable future for the aluminium industry. By rigorously evaluating the performance and viability of this innovative technology, Alba is demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement and its unwavering dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint. The success of this pilot program could pave the way for a significant transformation in Alba’s operations, leading to reduced emissions, improved air quality, and a more sustainable future for the company and the industry as a whole. The partnership with Techmo Car S.p.A. underscores the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and accelerating the adoption of sustainable technologies within the aluminium sector. As Alba moves forward with this pilot program, the industry will be watching closely, eager to learn from its experiences and potentially replicate its success.

Source: Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, the company has once again turned to Hertwich Engineering, a renowned SMS group company, for technological support. The latest investment includes a continuous homogenising furnace, an air cooling station, a long-billet stacker, and a semi-automatic PET strapping system, adding significant capacity to the already impressive recycling capabilities of the facility.

Back in 2018, Exlabesa initiated its journey to enhance production by commissioning a second continuous homogenising plant and later adding a multi-chamber melting furnace, both of which were supplied by Hertwich. With this new expansion, the continuous homogenisation capacity at the northwest Spanish site is expected to increase by 30,000 tons, raising the total output to approximately 80,000 tons per year.

The cutting-edge melting furnace recently brought into operation is specifically engineered for the production of recycled billets sourced from post-consumer aluminium scrap, which, having completed its lifecycle, requires innovative processing techniques. The integration of the new continuous homogenising facility will significantly increase the plant’s ability to process production scrap, enabling Exlabesa to reduce its reliance on primary aluminium, thereby conserving valuable natural resources.

This strategic investment not only exemplifies Exlabesa’s commitment to sustainable practices and CO2 reduction but also underscores the company’s dedication to fostering a cleaner and more efficient manufacturing process that aligns with the principles of the circular economy. By enhancing its capabilities, Exlabesa is well-positioned to meet the growing market demand for high-quality recycled aluminium products, positioning itself among the most advanced foundries globally.

Gerold Keune, CEO of Hertwich Engineering, highlighted the importance of tailored solutions, stating, “Finding solutions that are individually tailored to the needs of customers is one of Hertwich Engineering’s strengths. Our expansion of continuous homogenisation operations at the Exlabesa plant fits perfectly into the existing production environment. And last but not least, it is an investment in the sustainability of aluminium production. This endeavor also underscores our commitment to long-term cooperation and partnership. We believe in forging strong alliances with our clients, built on trust and shared goals.”

The newly implemented system will produce aluminium billets with diameters ranging from 178 to 406 millimeters and a length of 7.0 meters, accommodating all alloys within Exlabesa’s diverse portfolio. One of the standout features of Hertwich’s continuous system, in contrast to traditional chamber homogenisation, is its ability to ensure uniform treatment of aluminium billets. The continuous heat treatment within the homogenising furnace, at temperatures reaching up to 590 degrees Celsius, provides precise control over the heating process, allowing for the attainment of a uniform microstructure in the billets prior to entering the air cooling station. This meticulous process guarantees billets of high quality with optimal metallurgical properties while simultaneously reducing the energy consumption required for homogenisation.

Upon completion of the production process, the billets are systematically stacked and strapped using environmentally friendly plastic straps, further aligning with Exlabesa’s sustainability objectives.

In summary, Exlabesa’s expansion in A Coruña, bolstered by advanced technology from Hertwich Engineering, not only enhances recycling capabilities but also reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainable practices in the aluminium industry. This significant step toward greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact demonstrates Exlabesa’s leadership and responsibility in the evolving landscape of aluminium production.

Source:Glass Technology Services with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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The explosion sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a thorough investigation into the causes of the tragedy.

According to reports, the explosion took place at the aluminum factory, resulting in the death of a 31-year-old worker, D. Bocar, who succumbed to his burns. Two Albanian workers, S.Hyseni (33 years old) and A. Vila (48 years old), were also seriously injured in the incident and are currently hospitalized in critical condition.

The Prosecutor’s Office of Bolzano has opened an investigation to determine the exact causes of the explosion. Two hypotheses are being considered: a defect in the cooling system leading to the contact of water with molten metal, or a human error that may have caused the contact between water and aluminum.

S.Hyseni, the 33-year-old Albanian worker, is currently being treated in the burn ward of the ‘Borgo Trento’ hospital in Verona, where he is in critical condition. Artan Vila, the 48-year-old Albanian worker considered a “key” employee of the company, is hospitalized in the ‘Niguarda’ hospital in Milan with burns on his face and body.

In addition to the two Albanians, three other workers were also injured in the explosion. The Senegalese worker, D.B.Aboubacar (25 years old), is being treated in the cremation center in Murnau, Bavaria, while two other workers were admitted to the “San Maurizio” hospital with burns on various parts of their bodies.

The tragic incident has left the local community in shock, and the investigation is ongoing to determine the exact causes of the explosion. The Prosecutor’s Office is working tirelessly to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The aluminum industry is a vital part of Italy’s manufacturing sector, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining strict safety protocols and ensuring the well-being of workers. The loss of life and the serious injuries sustained by the employees have left a deep impact on their families and the broader community.

As the investigation continues, it is crucial that the authorities take all necessary measures to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future. Rigorous safety checks, proper maintenance of equipment, and stringent training for workers should be prioritized to ensure the safety and well-being of all personnel working in the aluminum industry.

The explosion at the Bolzano aluminum factory has once again highlighted the need for a renewed focus on workplace safety and the protection of human lives. As the industry and the community grapple with the aftermath of this tragic incident, it is our sincere hope that the lessons learned will lead to the implementation of more robust safety measures and the prevention of such devastating events in the years to come.

Source:GlassBalkan

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This esteemed award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to sustainability, social responsibility, and superior governance.

The ESG Award is granted by an independent panel of experts who evaluate companies on their ability to integrate sustainable practices into their core business strategy, foster social well-being, and uphold the highest standards of governance and ethics. The selection process is rigorous, focusing on tangible impacts and innovative approaches to addressing global sustainability challenges.

As a part of the M.T. Abraham Group, this recognition reaffirms Aluminij Industries’ commitment to setting the standard for excellence in the field of ESG. The company’s approach is based on the belief that sustainable business practices are essential not only for protecting the planet but also for ensuring long-term profitability and the trust of partners. Aluminij Industries is dedicated to continuously improving its environmental performance, contributing positively to society, and maintaining the highest levels of governance and integrity.

This award serves as a testament to Aluminij Industries’ leadership in sustainability and its dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and society. The company’s commitment to ESG principles sets it apart as a responsible corporate citizen and inspires others in the industry to follow suit. Congratulations to Aluminij Industries on this well-deserved recognition.

Source:  Aluminij with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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In a momentous announcement at ALFED’s Annual Business Briefing, the Aluminium Federation proudly introduced its new president, Mark Allen. With an impressive background as the Sales Director at Mechatherm International, the UK’s premier global aluminium furnace supplier, Allen brings over 25 years of invaluable experience to his new role. He succeeds the accomplished Mike Dines, who served as president for the past two years.

Successful Annual Business Briefing at Tortworth Hotel

Held at the esteemed Tortworth Hotel in Gloucester, this year’s Annual Business Briefing surpassed expectations with a record attendance of over 120 delegates from across the UK aluminium supply chain. The event, a cornerstone in fostering collaboration among ALFED members, featured engaging sessions where participants shared crucial data and insights.

Insights from Industry Experts

Business Briefing Kick-off

The Business Briefing commenced with a welcome from outgoing president Mike Dines, emphasizing unity within the UK aluminium industry.

Economic Outlook: A Thorough Analysis

The first half of the day delved into the economic outlook for the industry, both domestically and globally. Despite challenges, the mood was one of cautious optimism. Malindi Myers from the Bank of England highlighted the slow recovery from inflation, anticipating a return to normalcy by spring 2024. Bruce Alway, Director of Metals Research, offered a positive reflection on the past three years, acknowledging key events and indicating a promising trajectory for the industry.

CBAM Discussion and Industry Announcements

Gabriel Rozenberg and David Jenkins discussed the implications of the Carbon Border Adjustment Agreement (CBAM) on the UK and global markets. Additionally, the Aluminium Stewardship Initiative introduced a new Greenhouse Gas standardization, further enhancing its esteemed certification.

Evening Gala and Presidential Transition

The daytime proceedings seamlessly transitioned into ALFED’s annual black-tie dinner and charity casino evening, attended by over 250 members. Special guest speaker Ed Balls delivered the closing after-dinner speech. During this elegant affair, Mike Dines bid farewell, expressing gratitude to ALFED members and offering personal support to incoming President Mark Allen.

New Leadership and Ongoing Commitment to Growth

Upon his appointment, President Mark Allen expressed his pride in being entrusted with the leadership of ALFED. His commitment to steering the organization on a continued path of growth was evident in his statement: “I am exceptionally proud that ALFED is handing me the baton to help them continue on their journey of growth.”

Celebrating Retirement and Industry Commitment

The evening also saw the retirement announcement of ALFED board member and former president (2010-11) Colin Davies. President Mike Dines commended Davies for his unwavering commitment to ALFED and the aluminium industry throughout the years.

In conclusion, ALFED’s Annual Business Briefing not only provided a platform for insightful discussions but also marked the beginning of a new era under the leadership of President Mark Allen, symbolizing a steadfast commitment to industry growth and excellence.

Source: Aluminium Federation (ALFED) with additional information added by GlassBalkan

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