Nalco continues smelter expansion, considers alloy plant plan

Indian aluminium producer Nalco is continuing with its plant to expand its smelter in Angul.

It will add approximately 0.5 million tonnes of capacity at the facility, with technology for the project being finalised it said.

In its annual report for the year, the company said a project report with technology from the Technology Licensor is being prepared.

“Pre-project activities have been initiated. The acquisition of requisite land through IDCO, Govt. of Odisha is underway and environmental clearance for the project is under progress.”

The company is exploring different energy options to meet the smelter’s power requirements.

Elsewhere though, plans for the establishment of a high-end aluminium alloy plant for use in the defence, aerospace and automobile sectors is under review.

But a recent market survey for the 60,000 tonnes per year facility in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh said it was not commercially viable due to a lack of demand and a lower level of aluminium localisation in the aerospace, defence, marine, automotive and other sectors.

“Both the Administrative Ministries have reviewed the present project scenarios and further way forward for closure of the project was discussed and final decision in this regard shall be finalised,” Nalco said in its report.