His research  paper illustrated the role of refractories in steel making, which constitutes up to 80% of industrial use, particularly in secondary metallurgy where performance under demanding conditions is required.

Characteristics such as high purity alumina and operational cost considerations beyond initial purchase and installation, impact overall production efficiency and safety as these factors play a crucial role in optimizing steel making processes. 

The 2024 edition of the SEAISI conference once again served as a dynamic hub for exploring the future of steel through sustainable practices and smart technologies. We thank all the experts and industry leaders for their valuable contributions during this three-day event.

The seminar will focus on key topics such as trends in clean steel technology, refractory requirements and innovations, and will be attended by top steel producers Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH and Thyssenkrupp Steel, followed by a plant tour.

Speaking of the innovative solutions in steelmaking, check out our Tabular Alumina ECO-TAB® with significant sustainable advantage. This advanced sintered alpha alumina refractory aggregate has been developed primarily with steel and foundry ladles in mind, offering energy savings, high wear resistance and reduced material consumption to improve the efficiency and sustainability of industrial processes.

To learn more about how energy savings are possible in each step of metals manufacture, download our Product Data Sheet: ECO-TAB®

青岛经济技术开发的上万家企业当中，安迈铝业成为100个受到表彰的企业之一，源于对当地经济、环保等各方面持续地突出贡献。

山东自贸区青岛片区将竭力为青岛的企业提供更为优质的服务，以此来引进更多、更优质的投资，同时创造更有利于企业发展的自贸区营商环境。

Recently, Almatis Qingdao won two consecutive awards from the local government on February 27 and March 5 respectively, "2023 Unit with Outstanding Contribution to the Real Economy" and "2023 Ivy League Enterprise Award".

Among the tens of thousands of companies involved in Qingdao's economic and technological development, Almatis Qingdao became one of the 100 companies commended for its continued outstanding contributions to the local economy, environmental protection and other aspects.

The Qingdao Area of Shandong Free Trade Zone will strive to provide better services to enterprises in Qingdao, so as to introduce more and better investment, and at the same time create a free trade zone business environment that is more conducive to the development of enterprises.

About Qingdao Almatis

Qingdao Almatis Co. Ltd. is located in Qingdao Trade and Economic development zone in the port city of Qingdao. It consists of two plants making calcine and tabular alumina respectively.  The first phase in the tabular plant was established in 1998 to process imported CD and calcined alumina. After a US$18 million expansion investment in Phase II, which included two new tabular converters and a completely new Tabular CD processing line, the facility is now a state-of-the art, fully integrated production line for the manufacture of Tabular Alumina. Responding to the rising market demand in Asia, Almatis then invested over US$ 40 million into a second China plant, the Phase III project, which first started manufacturing calcined alumina products in 2012. Qingdao Almatis is now capable of producing and supplying its customers in mainland China and South East Asia very timely and efficiently with the expected quantity and quality of specialty alumina products.

Almatis, an OYAK Group Company and world leading supplier of specialty alumina products and solutions, is investing in a new calcined alumina production facility in the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone of China. This facility will double Almatis' production capacity in China, enhancing the company's competitiveness and market share in Asia. 

From left to right: Mr. Fan Qizhi, Director of the Qingdao Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, Mr. Wang Zhijun, Director of the Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Commerce, Mr. Li Hucheng, Secretary General of the Qingdao Municipal Government, Mr. Zhao Haozhi, Mayor & Deputy Secretary of the Municipal Party Committee, Mr. Anil Sönmez, Almatis Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Charles Compson, Almatis Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Alessio Scarsella, Almatis Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Wang Feng, Almatis Director Sales Refractories & Ceramics, Polishing & Other Specialties China Front, from left to right: Ms. Yuan Yingchun, Deputy Director of the Administrative Committee of Qingdao Economic & Technological Development Zone, Ms. Gözde Diner, Almatis

During the visit of the representatives from Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone of China at the Almatis Head Office in Frankfurt on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, the two parties have signed a memorandum of understanding for the project that will greatly benefit both Almatis and the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone of China.

The new facility will double Almatis' existing calcined alumina production capacity, facilitating growth in key markets such as semiconductor structural components, consumer electronics, thermal management devices, and electric vehicles. This groundbreaking project will take on supply chain challenges head on by procuring raw materials locally, responding to demand rapidly and adequately, and ensuring efficient and profitable operations.

A strategic move from Almatis

Construction of the new facility is scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2024, with commissioning planned for early 2026. With the introduction of a new calcination furnace and grinding technology Almatis will expand its product portfolio to better service its customers’ increasing demands in technical ceramics, chip, and electric vehicle industries across the entire Asian region.

Contributing to the development of the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone

The new calcined alumina facility will be in the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone, where Almatis' existing facility is located since 1998. Planned to commence operations in early 2026 and doubling the company's production capacity, the new facility will increase Almatis' market share in the Asian region.

The investment will significantly contribute to the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone. This new facility, boosting the region's economic growth and employment, will enhance the region's international competitiveness. Strengthening the region's industrial infrastructure Almatis investment will support the technological progress in the Qingdao Economic and Technological Development Zone.

安迈铝业隶属于OYAK集团，是世界领先的特殊氧化铝产品和解决方案供应商，现正在中国青岛经济技术开发区投资建设一条新的高品质煅烧氧化铝生产线。该新生产线将使安迈铝业在中国的产能提高一倍，从而增强其在亚洲市场的竞争力和市场份额。

从左至右：青岛市政府外事办公室主任范奇志先生，青岛市政府商务局局长王志俊先生，青岛市政府秘书长李虎成先生，青岛市市长、市委副书记赵豪志先生，安迈铝业首席执行官Anil Sönmez先生，安迈铝业首席商务官Charles Compson先生，安迈铝业首席运营官Alessio Scarsella先生，安迈铝业中国销售总监王峰先生

前排从左至右：青岛经济技术开发区管委会副主任袁迎春女士，安迈铝业首席财务官Gözde Diner女士

2024年4月23日（星期二），青岛市政府领导及经济技术开发区的代表到访了安迈铝业集团位于德国法兰克福的总部。期间双方签署了新项目投资谅解备忘录，该项目的落地将继续促进安迈铝业和青岛经济技术开发区的合作共赢。

未来新生产线的落成，将有效促进安迈铝业高端氧化铝产品在半导体结构部件、消费电子产品、热管理应用和电动汽车等关键市场上的进一步增长。该突破性项目将使得安迈铝业更有力的应对供应链的挑战，实现原材料的本地化供应，更快捷高效的实现安迈战略所需。

安迈铝业的一次战略行动

        新生产线的建设预计从2024年第四季度正式开始，计划于2026年初生产调试。通过引入一座全新的煅烧窑炉和最前沿的研磨技术及设备，安迈铝业将扩大其产品范围和丰富程度，更好地服务于整个亚洲地区的高技术陶瓷、半导体部件、芯片和电动汽车等行业的快速增长的需求。

为青岛经济技术开发区的发展做出贡献

        新煅烧氧化铝生产线将落成于安迈铝业在青岛的现有生产基地（该生产基地始建于1998年），并计划于2026年初开始运行，新产线将带来安迈铝业产能的进一步提升，促进其在亚洲地区市场份额的扩大。

        项目的引进将对青岛经济技术开发区未来的发展做出更加积极的贡献。新生产线将促进该区域的经济增长和就业吸引力，增强该区域的国际竞争力。安迈铝业集团的投资在加强青岛经济技术开发区的工业基础设施的同时，还将大力促进该开发区的产业升级和技术进步。

Founded over a century ago, Almatis officially became an independent company on March 1, 2004, setting the stage for a remarkable journey of growth and resilience. We stand as a testament to the power of dedication and collective effort, recognized globally for its innovative solutions and commitment to excellence. Today, when one thinks alumina, thinks Almatis.

Throughout the last two decades, we have achieved several key milestones, reinforcing our position as an industry leader:

2006 Expanded operations with the Huangdao, China Tabular Expansion and inaugurated the Neville, US Grinding Center, enhancing global presence.

2007 Achieved 100% ownership in Falta, India, solidifying commitment to strategic locations contributing to success.

2011 Expanded continuous ground capabilities at Neville Operations, enabling further regionalization and domestic supply.

2012 Established Almatis Campinas, Brazil Sales Office.

2013 Inaugurated the first calcines plant in Huangdao, China, facilitating regional production of calcined aluminas for Asian customers.

2015 Acquired by the OYAK Group, bringing new opportunities and reinforcing market standing.

2018 Marked a milestone with the Ludwigshafen, Germany Calcines Expansion and the opening of the Singapore Sales Office, showcasing dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.

2020 Enhanced global distribution network with the establishment of a Distribution Center in Singapore, streamlining logistics for increased efficiency.

2021 Inaugurated the new integrated Tabular Alumina plant in India, Falta, and expanded the Ludwigshafen Wet Mill, emphasizing commitment to cutting-edge technology and sustainability.

2023 Increased calcined alumina production capacity in Arkansas, US by 15%, and kicked off a series of investments in Rotterdam, Netherlands sintered aggregate operations. Optimized our global production footprint to adapt to the changing business environment and become stronger for the future.

We are celebrating this significant milestone, thanks to the entire Almatis Team, and their hard work, dedication, and passion that have contributed to our collective success. The celebration not only pays tribute to the past but also serves as a platform to strengthen the bonds that make Almatis a unique and vibrant community. 

Today, our journey evolves and gains momentum. With the same spirit that has carried us thus far, Almatis will continue to set new standards, overcome challenges, and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of our industry.

We would like to extend our gratitude to our shareholder OYAK, valued customers, business partners and Almatis employees for walking with us towards this incredible milestone. 

Almatis – Innovate Alumina and Beyond for Future

The event, organized by the CII, aimed to promote the adoption of QC Circles among member companies, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences to enhance quality, mitigate challenges and increase efficiency.

QC Circles, a structured approach towards quality management, have been gaining momentum as a powerful tool for mitigating challenges within organizations. The convention served as a platform for participants to showcase exemplary practices, exchange ideas, and learn from each other's experiences. It provided insights into forming QC Circles within companies, promoting the QC movement, and excelling in respective domains.

Almatis, represented by their team "ABHYUDAYA," consisting of five dedicated members, made a mark at the State Level competition held in February 2024. The team comprised Shubhankar Nath and Pabitra Chakrabortty from Production, along with Suprabhat Jana, Rahul Dey, and Anirban Banerjee from Maintenance. Despite stiff competition from 24 teams representing various industries, Almatis emerged victorious, earning the prestigious "Special Jury Award."

The recognition highlights Almatis' commitment to quality excellence and continuous improvement. By actively participating in forums like the CII QC Circle Convention, the company not only showcases its best practices but also contributes to the collective advancement of the industry. The award serves as a testament to Almatis' dedication to excellence and its ability to stand out amidst tough competition.

With this accolade, Almatis reaffirms its position as a trailblazer in quality management and sets a benchmark for excellence in the industry. As the company continues its journey towards innovation and excellence, it remains dedicated to leading by example in the industry.

About Almatis Alumina Private Limited, Falta, India

Almatis business activities in India began in 1995. At its Falta plant, Almatis Alumina Private Limited locally produces high quality Tabular Aluminas. For refractories, ceramics, glass, polishing, specialty and building chemistry markets in India & SEA Region, Almatis Alumina Private Ltd. offers the full Almatis specialty alumina product portfolio, including Tabular Alumina, Calcined Alumina, Calcium Aluminate Cement, Reactive Alumina and Spinel. As part of the Global Almatis Corporate Policy, the Falta site is committed to environmentally friendly solutions and safe operations.

The prestigious award, presented by esteemed community leaders Director Mr. Fu and Director Mr. Song, is a testament to Almatis Qingdao's unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and community growth in the Xin'an region. Out of 5,300 companies evaluated, Almatis stood out for its exemplary leadership in safety management, industrial development, environmental protection, and social responsibility.

The evaluation criteria for the award included foreign investment, industry ranking, taxation, revenue, and employment in the year 2023. Almatis Qingdao excelled in each category, showcasing its dedication to fostering sustainable progress and cooperative growth within the Xin'an area.

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award from the Xin'an community, recognizing our substantial contributions and leadership in various crucial aspects," said David Qian, Operations Director, Almatis Qingdao. "This achievement is a result of the collective efforts of our team and the strong support from the Xin'an community. We express our gratitude to everyone involved and are committed to continuing on a path of sustainable progress and shared achievements."

The recognition reflects Almatis Qingdao's ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and its mission to contribute positively to the communities in which it operates. The company looks forward to further collaborations with the Xin'an community and aims to build on this success for the benefit of all stakeholders.

About Qingdao Almatis

Qingdao Almatis Co. Ltd. is located in Qingdao Trade and Economic development zone in the port city of Huangdao. It consists of two plants making calcine and tabular alumina respectively.  The first phase in the tabular plant was established in 1998 to process imported CD and calcined alumina. After a US$18 million expansion investment in Phase II, which included two new tabular converters and a completely new Tabular CD processing line, the facility is now a state-of-the art, fully integrated production line for the manufacture of Tabular Alumina. Responding to the rising market demand in Asia, Almatis then invested over US$ 40 million into a second China plant, the Phase III project, which first started manufacturing calcined alumina products in 2012. Qingdao Almatis is now capable of producing and supplying its customers in mainland China and South East Asia very timely and efficiently with the expected quantity and quality of specialty alumina products.

Event: 6^th Australian DryMix Mortar Meeting

Date: 20 Feburary 2024

Location: Maritime MuSEAum, Darling Harbour, Sydney

Almatis Representative:

              Raymond Chuan Chin Ong, Regional Account Manager SEA

              raymond.ong@almatis.com

              +65 90496123

              Connect with Raymond on LinkedIn

Meeting Program & Information: 6th Australian Drymix Mortar Meeting, 20. February 2024, Sydney: Drymix.info - The International Community For Drymix Mortar

Sustainability is a key component of Almatis long-term corporate strategy.  Almatis sustainability program, Mission NeutrAL, outlines our Ambition for a sustainable raw material industry, our Commitment towards sustainability initiatives and Transparency with our sustainability performance.  Together, these key pillars support our mission to provide the lowest delivered carbon footprint for alumina products to our core markets.

Almatis corporate and product carbon accounting methodology is also verified to the ISO 14064-3 Standard.  Verification according to these methodologies significantly reduces the amount of time required to calculate, audit and verify the ongoing product carbon footprint of all product lines across our global operations.

Feel free to contact your regional account manager or send a message to our team at info@almatis.com to receive the verified values of specifically sourced products.

Mission NeutrAL: A Green Commitment

At the core of Almatis' environmental stewardship is Mission NeutrAL, a holistic strategy aiming to make a positive impact on the company's carbon footprint. Almatis is unwavering in its dedication to achieving carbon neutrality by integrating cutting-edge technologies, embracing renewable energy sources, and implementing energy-efficient processes across its production chain.

Renewable Energy Integration

We recognize the transformative power of renewable energy in mitigating the environmental impact of manufacturing. Through strategic partnerships and investments, we are actively transitioning towards cleaner energy sources to energize our facilities and to provide products with lower carbon footprint.

Energy-Efficient Processes

Sustainable manufacturing practices take center stage in Almatis' commitment to Mission NeutrAL. We continuously explore and implement innovative technologies that enhance energy efficiency throughout our production lines, reducing overall energy consumption and environmental impact.

Clean Manufacturing Operations: A Pillar of Almatis' Ethos

We place significant emphasis on maintaining clean manufacturing operations. This involves not only minimizing emissions but also addressing waste management, water conservation, and responsible sourcing.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Advanced waste reduction and recycling programs form a cornerstone of Almatis' eco-friendly initiatives. By reusing materials and adopting circular economy principles, the company has a well-established system that significantly reduces waste generation.

Water Conservation Practices

Recognizing the importance of water as a precious resource, Almatis is dedicated to its responsible use. Through water conservation practices and the implementation of efficient water management systems, the company aims to minimize its water footprint, contributing to the preservation of this vital resource.

Responsible Sourcing

Almatis is committed to sourcing raw materials responsibly, prioritizing suppliers who adhere to sustainable practices. By engaging in ethical sourcing, the company ensures that its manufacturing processes are aligned with environmental stewardship from the very beginning of the supply chain.

Almatis is setting new standards for environmental responsibility in the manufacturing industry through Mission NeutrAL and a commitment to clean operations. By integrating renewable energy, adopting energy-efficient processes, and embracing responsible practices across its supply chain, Almatis is not only reducing its environmental impact but also inspiring the broader industrial community to join the journey towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Carbon Neutrality

We have taken a bold step towards carbon neutrality, ensuring any tabular alumina can now be produced with a reduced environmental impact. 

Our impressive reduction of 13%, from 1.1 to 0.90 Mt CO₂e /Mt alumina, holds even more significance than it appears. It is crucial to highlight that the 0.2 Mt CO₂e /Mt alumina reduction constitutes nearly two-thirds of our total Scope 1+2 carbon footprint! By reducing our scope 1+2, we pave the way for our customers to significantly trim their scope 3 emissions. It is a collective journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.

This breakthrough extends beyond a single product; now, any of our tabular aluminas can be manufactured with a reduced environmental impact.

This represents a monumental leap toward our Mission NeutrAL goals. 

Why Low Carbon?

Actively contribute to a sustainable future, by choosing our low carbon tabular aluminas. It is not just about the material; it is about making a conscious choice that benefits our customer’s immediate requirements but also demonstrates their commitment to a greener, more climate-friendly industry.

Placing an order means investing in a sustainable future, as we commit to purchasing green energy for our production processes. Not only do our customers receive top-notch material with identical performance and quality, but they also align themselves with a company dedicated to minimizing its carbon footprint.

Our Commitment

With our low carbon tabular alumina, we are committed to minimizing our carbon footprint by investing in green energy for production.

Join us in shaping a future where performance and environmental consciousness go hand in hand.

Tabular & other Aggregates

Mr. Sönmez also shares valuable insights into the current state of the global alumina market. He highlights the performance of the tabular manufacturing plant in Falta, West Bengal, which is playing a key role in driving growth at Almatis globally by serving as a strategic production center.

The interview can be found in the abridged version of the magazine at the following link: LINK