The Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology

Rusal introduces a new aluminium alloy for anodizing

(Posted on 11/02/22)

RUSAL , a leading global aluminium producer, has developed an optimized 5xxx series aluminuim alloy for further anodizing. Production has now started at the Bratsk Aluminium Smelter (BrAZ).

RUSAL's Technical Directorate conducted a general assessment of this alloy and organized its mass production. Furthermore, the production of optimized 5005A alloy slabs will be launched, used by rolling mills to anodize coils and sheets.

Currently, these products are only available through importation. The production of the new alloy in industrial volumes will provide the Russian consumer with the 5xxx series, facilitating the development of high-processed products including facing panels, spotlights, and electrolytic capacitors.

Domestic market demand is estimated to be around 50 thousand tons of 5xxx series alloy.

“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, 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,” said Roman Andryushin, Deputy General Director of RUSAL for sales in Russia, the CIS and China.

Thanks to the anodization of alloys, the final product is covered with a protective oxide film, which is second only to diamond in terms of hardness. Anodizing technology improves the corrosion resistance of products, improving their aesthetic appearance and increasing their service life.

Thanks to the pricing policy of RUSAL and the conclusion of long-term contracts with suppliers within the domestic market, high-tech aluminum products used in the construction industry, facade structures, and products previously only available through importation have now been introduced, including began to be pipes, lighting poles, noise barriers, helipads and cable amongst other products.