Rusal Takes a Sustainable Step Forward with Aluminum Scrap Processing at KrAZ
For the first time in its history, the Krasnoyarsk aluminum smelter (KrAZ), owned by Rusal, has processed a significant batch of aluminum scrap into primary aluminum. This milestone reflects a pivotal shift in production practices, emphasizing sustainability within the industry.
The processed batch, though modest at 60 tonnes, marks a crucial step for Rusal in integrating recycled materials into its production chain. According to Rusal's statement, the cans produced from this batch maintain the same technical characteristics as those made entirely from primary aluminum, a notable achievement since the company has not previously supplied aluminum containing recycled metal for can production.
Igor Ignashov, Rusal's Sales Director for Russia and the CIS, highlighted the environmental significance of this initiative, stating, "The use of scrap in aluminum production is one of the most effective ways to reduce the carbon footprint of our products." He noted that the rising demand for products containing recycled metal signifies a major trend in the global aluminum industry.
Leveraging the experience gained at KrAZ, Rusal is now developing a series of investment projects aimed at scaling up scrap processing to industrial levels. Looking ahead, KrAZ is set to become a leading facility in Rusal's recycling efforts.
KrAZ, with a design capacity of 1 million tonnes of metal per year, plays a significant role in both national and global aluminum production, accounting for 27% of Russia's output and 3% globally. The smelter is also undergoing environmental restructuring, which began in December of the previous year. This initiative includes constructing a new electrolysis series that will significantly reduce emissions, such as hydrogen fluoride, tarry substances, and benzopyrene, while maintaining production volumes.
Rusal has committed approximately 100 billion rubles to this project, with expectations to produce the first metal from the new production line by 2027.
