RUSAL INTRODUCES A NEW ALUMINUM ALLOY FOR ANODIZING

Russian multinational RUSAL, one of the world’s leading aluminum producers, has developed a 5xxx series aluminum alloy optimized for further anodizing. Production has now started at the Bratsk aluminum smelter.

A few months ago, RUSAL’s technical management conducted a general evaluation of the alloy and organized its serial production. In addition, the production of optimized 5005A alloy slabs, used by the rolling mills to anodize coils and sheets, will be launched.

“The development of value-added products such as 5005A alloy slabs aligns with RUSAL’s strategy to develop 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,” says Roman Andryushin, RUSAL’s deputy general director for sales in Russia, the CIS and China.

In particular, thanks to the anodization of the alloys, the final product is covered with a protective oxide film, which is only surpassed by diamond in terms of hardness. Anodizing technology improves the corrosion resistance of products, enhancing their aesthetic appearance and increasing their service life.

Currently, these products are only available for import. Production of the new alloy in industrial volumes will provide Russian consumers with the 5xxx series, which will facilitate the development of highly processed products, including cladding panels, light bulbs and electrolytic capacitors. The domestic market demand for 5xxx series alloy is estimated at around 50 thousand tons.