Category: Recycled Metals

Hydro attributed the decision to low capacity utilization and the need for significant capital investment

The US is competing with China on advanced technologies, semiconductors and critical minerals, but major metals aren’t getting enough attention, according to a report from the SAFE.

Rio Tinto has started commissioning its AP60 expansion at Arvida, adding 160,000 metric tons of annual primary aluminum capacity while replacing older production assets.

The Lebanon facility will effectively double the company's total annual processing capacity to an estimated 240 million pounds.

AMU's May survey results showed higher obsolete scrap availability as respondents continued reporting elevated freight costs and UBC price expectations moderated.

AMU's May aluminum market survey showed lengthier rolled product lead times coupled with shrinking extrusion and primary booking windows, though inventory building and forward demand sentiment remained cautious.

Demand totaled an estimated 26.65 billion pounds in 2025, a year marked by an ever-shifting tariff environment, the association said.

The upgrades are expected to increase capacity by up to 75,000 metric tons, the company said in an announcement.

The Bowling Green operation will function as a full-cycle aluminum production site. Capabilities will include extrusion, anodizing, and finishing capabilities, allowing AKFA to perform multiple processing stages within a single US location rather than relying on external tolling or offshore finishing.

Hydro's Q1 results show higher prices supporting margins despite weaker North American demand and ongoing Middle East curtailments.